TOM'S OF MAINE OFFERS PPA-FREE RELIEF THIS COUGH/COLD SEASON

Consumers concerned about safe, effective PPA-free products can trust Tom's wellness solutions

(Kennebunk, Maine): With hundreds of cough/cold products being pulled from store shelves today following the Food and Drug Administration's announcement that it will seek to remove phenylpropanolamine (PPA) from over-the-counter drugs, consumers are scrambling to find safe, effective alternatives. Tom's of Maine Natural Nasal Decongestant, a PPA-free product, offers safe, symptomatic relief from congestion due to the common cold. The company's extensive line of natural wellness products is formulated without PPA, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

A study released today on The New England Journal of Medicine website reports that PPA is associated with a small but significant increase in the risk of stroke among women ages 18-49. Over 400 cough/cold and appetite suppressant products on the market contain PPA. Based on the research findings, the FDA no longer recognizes PPA as "Generally Recognized As Safe," and has indicated it will seek to ban the ingredient from over-the-counter products. Consumers have been advised to read product labels carefully in light of this FDA warning.

Containing naturally sourced pseudoephedrine as its active ingredient -- not PPA -- Tom's Natural Nasal Decongestant helps open congested nasal passages and improve normal breathing. The alcohol-free product is in liquid form for fast-acting results, and in four formulations to satisfy different dosage and usage requirements: Adult Daytime, Adult Nighttime, Children's Daytime, and Children's Nighttime. A vegetable glycerin base provides a smooth, pleasant taste, and honey helps to soothe an irritated throat.

"We have received a number of telephone calls from consumers concerned about the presence of PPA in their cough/cold products. We are happy to say that Tom's Natural Nasal Decongestant does not contain PPA, and never has. People looking for a safe and effective way to battle their nasal congestion this season can continue to trust our products to help alleviate their symptoms," says Tom Chappell, President and co-founder of Tom's of Maine.

Tom's wellness line-up includes a broad range of products including Natural Muscle Balm, Cough & Cold Rub, Herbal Extracts, and Wellness Tonics. The most recent additions to the line include Green Tea Tonic, Ginseng Tonic, and Valerian Tonic, each with its own unique product benefits.

Tom's Cough, Cold & Wellness products are available in health food stores nationwide, as well as selected supermarkets and pharmacies. And beginning November 17, consumers can purchase the entire line of Tom's of Maine products online. For more information about these or other Tom's products, contact Kathleen Taggersell at 800-775-2388.

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