GlaxoSmithKline announced today it will stop making, selling and advertising its Super Poligrip brands of denture adhesives that contain zinc.
The announcement comes after numerous people, including a Winston-Salem man, said they suffered permanent neurological damage when they ingested the mineral, which had been included as an adhesive. Many consumers used large amounts of the creams to keep ill-fitting dentures in place.
In its statement, GSK officials urged people who have used the products for years in excessive amounts to switch immediately to zinc-free brands. Last fall, the company added a consumer warning in packages of the products, which include Super Poligrip Original, Ultra Fresh and Extra Care.
Zinc-free brands are Super Poligrip Free, Super Poligrip Comfort Seal Strips and Super Poligrip Powder.
Consumers who have experienced numbness, tingling and weakness in the arms and legs were encouraged to talk to their doctors.
Johnny Howell of Winston-Salem said he blames his disability on years of using Poligrip products. His legs buckle unexpectedly, causing him to fall and injure himself. He cannot drive, nor work. He said today he is pleased the company will no longer sell the products.
"I hope it is a victory, because the fact that it could happen to me, it could end up hurting or killing someone else," Howell said.
As it has in the past, the company stressed that when used according to package directions - small amounts once a day - the level of zinc was safe.
