ZICAM
In 1997, Hensley and Davidson revolutionized the over-the-counter cold remedy market by inventing and developing Zicam, a widely used product for alleviating cold symptoms. Hensley and Davidson also designed the innovative nasal delivery system that became a key feature of Zicam products. To bring this groundbreaking remedy to market more quickly, Hensley co-founded Gel Tech, LLC (now Zicam, LLC) alongside Gum Tech International (now Matrixx Initiatives, Inc.). His contributions have had a significant impact on cold relief solutions and the OTC healthcare industry.
Dr. Charles B. Hensley and Dr. Robert Steven Davidson collaborated closely in the development of Zicam. Their relationship can be described as a partnership where they both held patents on Zicam. Davidson initially thought zinc could be a promising treatment for the common cold, similar to other scientific entrepreneurs at the time. Here's how their backgrounds contributed to the development:
- Dr. Charles B. Hensley: Had a scientific background focused on testing cardiac drugs.
- Dr. Robert Steven Davidson: Worked in the field of holistic health.
They combined their expertise and began working in a lab, testing various zinc compounds. This work led to the development of a gel nose spray designed to adhere to the nasal cavity and potentially stop the movement of the cold virus. They brought in research and cold experts during the first year to review their methods and conduct in-house trials. This suggests a collaborative process where they combined their skills and knowledge to invent and develop Zicam.
