Poli-Grip Products to be Reformulated in Canada Due to Zinc Risks

GlaxoSmithKline has stopped the manufacture, distribution and advertising of Poli-Grip ‘Advanced Care’, ‘Extra Strength’ and ‘Ultra Fresh’ denture adhesives in the Canadian market. According to a Health Canada alert, the three Poli-Grip the action was taken because of concern that overuse of the denture creams may lead to the development of neurological symptoms.

As we reported last week, Glaxo has also ended the manufacture, distribution and advertising of three Super PoliGrip denture creams – ‘Original’, ‘Ultra Fresh’ and ‘Extra Care’ – in the U.S. over similar concerns. Glaxo will be introducing zinc-free versions of the denture adhesives in both the U.S. and Canada.

According to the Health Canada advisory, some consumers apply more Poli-Grip adhesive than directed and use it more than once per day. Therefore, as a precautionary measure to minimize any potential risks to these consumers, Glaxo has voluntarily stopped the manufacture, distribution and advertising of the zinc-containing products.

Consumers who have been using zinc-containing Poli-Grip ‘Advanced Care’, ‘Extra Strength’ or ‘Ultra Fresh’ for several years in greater amounts than directed on the package or more than once per day, or have concerns about their health, must:

1. Stop using the product.
2. Talk to their doctor.
3. Switch to a zinc-free alternative.

Neurological symptoms associated with excessive exposure to zinc in denture cream may include numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms and legs, difficulties with walking and balance, and blood problems such as anemia.

People with ill-fitting dentures should seek help from their dental care professional, rather than compensate for poorly fitting dentures by using excessive adhesive, Health Canada said.