Popular Denture Creams Linked to Zinc Poisoning and Neuropathy

Recent medical evidence shows that popular denture adhesives, such as Poligrip and Fixodent, pose the threat of zinc poisoning and neuropathy in people who regularly use these products. This means that the approximately 35 million denture wearers in the United States are at risk of suffering serious physical harm.

If you or a loved one has suffered zinc poisoning, hypocupremia (copper deficiency), hyperzincemia (excess zinc), or neuropathy (peripheral nerve damage) while using denture creams, such as Poligrip or Fixodent, you may wish to contact attorney who can determine your legal rights and options. Read on to learn more about the problems with denture creams.

Denture Cream and Zinc

Many denture creams contain zinc, which acts as an odor blocker and bonding agent. This ingredient, however, is not typically listed on denture cream labeling, as the Food and Drug Administration does not require this disclosure on “low-risk Class 1” products.
Unfortunately, exposure to too much zinc can cause serious health problems. In addition to being swallowed by denture wearers, the zinc in denture creams can also be absorbed through the skin and the gums. With long term use of denture cream, zinc can build up in the system, which is thought to pose the threat of nervous system injury.

Side Effect Risks

The zinc poisoning associated with denture cream use is associated with a type of nervous system disorder known as neuropathy. Neuropathy affects the peripheral nerves in the body (those not found in the brain and spinal cord), and can have debilitating effects.

Symptoms of neuropathy that may develop in patients who suffer the side effects of denture cream use may include:

Motor nerve damage symptoms

  • Muscle weakness, cramps and spasms
  • Loss of balance and coordination

Sensory nerve damage symptoms

  • Tingling
  • Numbness
  • Pain often described as burning, freezing, electric,
  • High sensitivity to touch
  • Feeling of wearing a glove or sock over affected part

Autonomic nerve damage symptoms

  • Abnormal blood pressure and heart rate
  • Changes in perspiration
  • Constipation
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Bladder incontinence

Denture Cream Lawsuits

Several denture wearers have come forward in recent months to file a claim against the makers of denture cream. Through a denture cream lawsuit, these injured consumers are able to seek compensation for their medical costs and other losses from the makers of these dangerous products.

For example, a man using Super Poligrip for more than 8 years has filed a denture cream lawsuit against the product’s makers, GlaxoSmithKline. In this case, the injured man claims that the manufacture failed to disclose the inclusion of zinc in the cream and that the product poisoned him, resulting in permanent damage of his nervous system.

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Ted Oshman has been with The Oshman Firm since 1988 serving clients for over 25 years. Learn more about Ted's background and featured practice areas here.

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