According to a press release issued by GlaxoSmithKline three major products are being pulled as the company works on a new zinc-free formula. Super PoliGrip Free, Super PoliGrip Comfort Seal Strips, and Super PoliGrip Powder are popular brands that have been under scrutiny by consumer groups and consumers who have filed lawsuits against the manufacturer.

The company stands by the product and reminds consumers that the product is safe as is, as long as it is used as directed. Unfortunately for many years these products have been available to the public with NO warning label to aid consumers in understanding the harmful affects of not using the product as directed. When we first looked at this story back in July of 2009, there was no requirement to list consumer warnings on the product. Since that time, GSK has added inserts in all denture products which warns consumers to the serious health effects that can result from excessive zinc intake. Sadly that information has come a little too late for consumers who have been using the product for years.

As denture cream manufacturers are quick to point out, zinc poisoning only occurs when consumers use an excessive amount of denture cream. This can be true for individuals who have ill fitting dentures that requires they use much more denture cream then recommended. When this happens, the consumer is subjecting themselves to a much higher amount of zinc then is safe for consumption. Zinc poisoning can have serious health effects including neurological and nerve damage. Common health problems reported include numbness, difficulty walking and maintaining balance, and weakness in the extremities. In the most extreme cases, individuals may end up paralyzed.

The fact that GSK is stopping the manufacture, distribution and marketing of these products until a replacement formula that is free of zinc is found, speaks volumes to the real danger associated with using these products incorrectly. They are doing so, “as a precautionary measure to minimize any potential risks to these consumers”. There are also dozens of lawsuits filed against GSK as well as Proctor & Gamble from consumers who have already experienced severe health problems as a result of using denture cream with zinc in the formula.

Consumers who have used these products (more than directed) for several years should immediately stop using the product and consult their doctor to determine if any damage has been done. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with zinc poisoning, you must seek medical attention immediately.