Denture Cream Lawsuit
An estimated 35 million Americans wear dentures and use denture creams containing zinc such as Poligrip or Fixodent. Most denture wearers are unaware of the potential health risks posed by use of these zinc containing creams.
These denture creams have been linked to serious and sometimes debilitating permanent neurologic injuries. Small amounts of zinc are necessary in a healthy and balanced diet but excessive amounts of zinc can cause copper depletion and zinc poisoning. Toxic zinc exposure can lead to unexplained weakness, numbness, and loss of sensation. Severe zinc poisoning can cause neuropathy. Neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves.
Symptoms of zinc poisoning include:
- numbness or tingling in the extremities
- loss of ability to move legs, feet, arms or hands
- unexplained pain in the extremities
- poor balance
- difficulty walking-paralysis
- wheelchair confinement
A study published in the summer of 2008 found neuropathy symptoms and other neurological symptoms typical of copper depletion and zinc poisoning in patients who used denture cream. Because denture creams are classified as Class 1 drugs, manufacturers are not required to list zinc on the label or packaging. As a result many users have no idea of their risk. You may be entitled to compensation through a denture cream lawsuit due to the manufacturer’s failure to test their product or warn about the dangers of prolonged exposure to the zinc in their products. If you or a loved one is suffering from any of these symptoms and have been using denture cream on a regular basis you could be suffering from zinc poisoning and be in need of medical attention. If you suspect you are suffering from zinc poisoning it is imperative that you have the proper testing performed. The following tests may be performed to determine if you are suffering as a result of excessive zinc in your body:
Blood or urine tests for:
- Zinc levels
- Copper levels
- B12 levels
- Ceruloplasmin
This testing is important in determining if you have a case of zinc poisoning due to denture cream use. Failure to obtain the necessary testing will significantly reduce your chances of having a viable lawsuit and recovering damages. If you wish to be tested and do not have a treating physician, Showard Law Firm can direct you to labs in your area to conduct the tests. If you believe you may have been injured by a denture cream product containing zinc such as Fixodent or Polygrip or would like more information, contact Showard Law Firm.
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Defective Drugs & Medical Devices
