Glaxo Removing Zinc from Denture Creams: Part 2

Hi everyone,

I received this email blast from the Ontario Dental Association regarding the removal of zinc from denture adhesive pastes. Here's the quote:

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) warns about a potential health risk associated with long-term, excessive use of zinc-containing denture adhesives Poli-Grip "Advanced Care," "Extra Strength" and "Ultra Fresh."

Media Releases from Glaxo Smith Kline:

• English (online PDF) 181KB
• French (online PDF) 223KB

GSK will stop manufacturing these zinc-containing denture adhesive and plans to replace them with zinc free products.

While zinc is an essential part of the diet, recent publications suggest that an excessive intake of zinc-containing denture adhesives over several years may lead to the development of neurological symptoms such as numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms and legs, difficulties with walking and balance, and blood problems such as anemia.

Poli-Grip is safe to use as directed in the product label. However, some consumers apply more adhesive than directed and use it more than once a day. Therefore, as a precautionary measure to minimize any potential risks to these consumers, GSK has voluntarily stopped the manufacture, distribution and advertising of these products.

Health Canada has not to date issued a recall of the product. These measures are being taken by GSK.

ODA Members may wish to advise patients who use denture adhesives to:

• follow package instructions
• use zinc-free alternative such as Poli-Grip "Original," "Comfort Strips" or "Powder" and
• arrange a consultation with you to assess ill-fitting dentures.

Consumers with questions may call GSK at 1-888-521-8033.

Source: ODA Advantage Email Sent Feb 22, 2010, Read on Feb 23, 2010.

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100

Glaxo Removing Zinc from Denture Creams

Hi everyone,

I saw this article on Zinc and denture creams and the link with neurological problems. Here's the teaser quote from the Globe and Mail:

After being hit with dozens of lawsuits and growing questions about product safety, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Inc. announced yesterday it will stop selling denture creams that contain zinc.

Excessive zinc intake can cause serious neurological problems and lead to numbness, tingling or weakness in the limbs as well as difficulty walking and balancing or anemia and other blood problems, the company said.

The company said it’s a precautionary move designed to prevent any potential long-term health problems in people who use zinc-containing Poli-Grip in excess of the amount indicated on the label.

And they’re also warning consumers who are using too much of the product to immediately stop and see their doctor if they have any concerns.

You can read the rest of the article here: Zinc to be removed from some denture creams

Source: Globe and Mail Online, Feb 19, 2010, http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health/zinc-to-be-removed-from-some-denture-creams/article1474174/ Read Feb 20/2010

Hans Skariah, B.Sc., DMD
Promenade Court Dental Health Group in Mississauga
2233 Hurontario St., Mississauga, ON, Canada
(1/2 km north of the QEW in the Dome Building)
(905) 273-7100