Poligrip Zinc Poisoning – Denture Cream Injury Lawyers
When people rely on a product daily, they usually believe that its use is safe. Recent evidence of zinc poisoning resulting from the use of Poligrip, however, reveals that there may be dangers in a product used by millions of Americans.
Some denture creams, including Fixodent and Poligrip, contain zinc. Since the product is used orally, the use of Fixodent can lead to users ingesting high levels of zinc. While small amounts of zinc are necessary for normal bodily processes, large amounts can cause zinc poisoning, also referred to as hyperzincemia.
Because zinc competes with copper for absorption by the body, chronic excessive zinc consumption, which may occur with the use of certain denture adhesives, can cause copper deficiency. This condition is known as hypocupremia and can cause permanent neurological damage, neuropathy and other complications.
How Much Zinc Is Too Much?
Researchers have discovered that users of Fixodent and other denture creams may be exposed to as much as 330 mg of zinc per day. The recommended intake of zinc per day for men is 11 mg per day and for women is 8 mg per day. Medical experts say that the highest dose of zinc that can be safely tolerated is 40 mg per day.
While zinc levels have been found to return to normal after denture wearers stop using Fixodent, the neurological damage that results from long-term usage may be irreversible. Victims of zinc poisoning are often left with painful and life-altering injuries that may leave them with limited mobility.
Not all medical professionals are aware of the potential for zinc poisoning from denture cream usage, so this situation has a high probability to be misdiagnosed. To ensure that the proper diagnosis is reached, it is imperative that patients with potential exposure to denture creams who are experiencing symptoms of excessive zinc levels or copper deficiency have blood tests to determine the exact cause of their distress.
Symptoms of Zinc Poisoning
The symptoms of problems related to using Fixodent or other denture adhesives include:
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Pain
- Weakness
- Loss of sensation
- Loss of balance
- Paralysis
- Difficulty walking.
Experienced Zinc Poisoning Attorneys
As in any lawsuit, it is essential to have an attorney who understands your case and has extensive experience with your situation. The Arnold Law Firm has expertise with zinc poisoning claims. For more information, contact the law firm directly.
The Arnold Law Firm has an established record of representing those injured by the actions of others. The firm has an on-staff physician (who is also an attorney) to assist with cases that involve medical injuries. Located in Sacramento, California, the Arnold Law Firm has extensive experience with product defect and pharmaceutical litigation. Their attorneys are well-versed in fighting powerful drug companies and large corporate entities. To discuss your case, call (916) 924-3100 today or click here.