Zicam, an over-the-counter medicine that claims to reduce the severity and duration of the common cold, is applied intranasally and composed primarily of a diluted form of zinc

Introduction Zinc is a vital nutrient that serves many roles in the body. Present in many foods and dietary supplements, zinc aids the function of over 100 enzymes, has a presence in the immune system, helps heal wounds, and is a requirement for the synthesis of DNA and cell division (“Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Zinc”). Recently, zinc has also been used as the active ingredient in homeopathic cold remedies. Zicam, an over-the-counter medicine that claims to reduce the severity and duration of the common cold, is applied intranasally and composed primarily of a diluted form of zinc gluconate. This particular remedy has enjoyed moderate popularity, selling over 35 million units since its introduction in 1999 (“Message to Consumers”). Despite its widespread use, the intranasal application of zinc has recently produced safety concerns. In June 2009, the FDA warned the public against using three over-the-counter zinc products: Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Gel; Zicam Cold Remedy Nasal Swabs; and Zicam Cold Remedy Swabs, Kids Size. The FDA attributed the recall to over 130 consumer reports of anosmia after Zicam use (“FDA Advises Consumers Not to Use Certain Zicam Cold Remedies”). Though cooperating with the FDA, Matrixx Initiatives, the maker of Zicam, maintains that its products are completely innocuous; the company argues that the anosmia being experienced by consumers is simply a side effect of malady that Zicam treats (“Message to Consumers”). Though the number one cause of anosmia is the common cold, evidence has surfaced suggesting that the intranasal application of Zicam may not be safe. Historical incidents,