Health Canada and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) published an information document in February, advising health professionals about potential health risks to patients from the long-term excessive use of denture adhesives that contain zinc.
Patients who use more than the directed amounts of such denture creams over several years (e.g., applying the product more than once a day due to ill-fitting dentures) may be susceptible to developing myeloneuropathy and blood disorders. However those who use these products according to the instructions are not at risk of excessive zinc intake.
As a precautionary measure, GSK has voluntarily stopped the manufacture, distribution and advertising of its Poli-Grip Advanced Care, Extra Strength, and Ultra Fresh products.
Dentists who suspect any sensory disturbance, limb weakness or difficulty walking or other serious adverse effects in patients related to long-term, excessive use of zinc-containing denture adhesives can report these cases to Health Canada or GSK.
The Health Canada document can be found at:
www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/medeff/advisories-avis/prof/_2010/poligrip_hpc-cps-eng.php