Alert over zinc in denture adhesives

A company has taken steps to warn consumers of potential health risks associated with long-term excessive use of denture adhesives containing zinc.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Consumer Healthcare issued a warning last week (18 Febraury) about the potential health risks associated with long-term excessive use of zinc-containing denture adhesives.

The company has now taken global action to halt the manufacture and supply of its denture adhesives containing zinc.

It's been suggested that the move is in direct response to consumer group pressure concerned about health risks associated with excessive zinc intake. In the US, some patients have begun legal proceedings.

A spokesperson said: ‘We are taking these actions because we have become aware of potential health problems associated with the long-term excessive use of our zinc-containing denture adhesive products.

‘However, it is important for consumers to know that these products remain safe to use as directed on the product label.'

The company maintains that their denture adhesives are safe when used as directed, and that problems only arise when consumers ‘apply more adhesive than directed [or] use it more than once per day.'

GSK will now issue zinc-free versions of all affected variants and ‘Zinc Free' will be shown on the new packaging.

For further information, consumers can ring GSK on 0800 988 6366 or visit www.poligrip.co.uk.

Those who have been using the product correctly may continue to do so safely. Ensure that you are using the products as directed on the package:

Advice to consumers
1. Those who have been using the product correctly may continue to do so safely. Ensure that you are using the products as directed on the package:
Apply once a day for secure hold. Start with a small amount. Using too much adhesive can cause oozing. If oozing occurs, use less adhesive next time. Do not apply more than once a day. A typical 40g tube should last about six weeks. If you are using too much adhesive, this may be a sign of ill-fitting dentures. See your dentist regularly. Routine dental examinations are part of good oral health and necessary to check the fit of your denture.
2. If you have been using zinc-containing Poligrip Ultra and Poligrip Total Care for several years in greater amounts than directed on the package, for example:
• Using adhesive more than once per day, or
• Using adhesive a shorter time than directed on the label – a typical 40g tube should last about six weeks, or
• You have concerns about your health

you must
• Stop using the product.
• Talk to your doctor.
• Use a zinc-free alternative adhesive.

Consumers with questions may call GSK at 0800 988 6366

For more information on Poligrip and zinc, go to www.poligrip.co.uk.