GSK Reported to Have Paid $120M in Poligrip Settlements

London, UKAccording to a report on Reuters.com the maker of Poligrip products, GlaxoSmithKline, has paid at least $120 million to settle claims that allege the denture cream causes or caused neurological disorders.

The alleged neurological disorders are believed to be linked to zinc, which was an ingredient in Poligrip products. In February, 2011, following the release of research that showed a causal link between some neurological problems such as nerve damage, and the zinc found in denture adhesives, GSK agreed to remove the zinc from its denture cream products. Zinc, which increases adhesion, was used in Super Poligrip Original, Ultra Fresh and Extra Care products.

Reportedly, during the past nine months, GSK has settled some 100 lawsuits filed over this issue, specifically that GSK failed to warn consumers about Poligrip's potential health issues related to zinc. The settlements may have averaged $1 million per claim.

GSK has also reportedly stated that in 2011 it has "reached agreements in principle to settle the vast majority of the current cases.” (Reuters.com)