Expanding the Product Line

The initial Zicam product launched in 1999 was a nasal spray that actually reduced cold symptoms very quickly and shortened the length of the cold. There was a big difference between Zicam and other nasal sprays. The others simply made you feel better while you had the cold. With Zicam, you were over the cold in two days, whereas with traditional remedies, you had to use them for as long as you had the cold, which was typically seven to fourteen days. The Zicam gel matrix was patented, and the patent was good until 2018.

In 2000 the Zicam product line was expanded with a unique formulation-allergy product, and in 2002 the company engaged in a major new product-effort. A total of five new products were launched in 2002. Adult- and child- sized premoistened swabs were added, where you swab the nose and throw the swab away. These swabs were for people who found a nasal spray somewhat frightening. Two nasal decongestant products were also added in 2002, along with a nasal moisturizer.