Johnson & Johnson is recalling approximately 2.5 million packages of Tylenol Multi-Symptom Nighttime Rapid Release Gel caps. The recall applies to retailers and wholesalers – but does not apply to consumers that have the drugs at home. The reason for the recall was the discovery of elevated amounts of chlorpheniramine ammonio acetate (CPAA) in some of the capsules. What is really surprising is that this is just the latest in a string of recalls, that have reportedly cost the drug giant somewhere around $900 million in sales last year. Let’s take a look at some of the more notable recent recalls from the company:
• Since March, the company has recalled on at least 5 different occasions because of complaints of an unusual odor coming from bottles of drugs. In June 60,912 bottles, of Extra-Strength Tylenol was recalled. Also, in June, 16,000 bottles of Risperdal were recalled. In May 2,000 bottles of Prezista were recalled in Europe by J &J. In April 57,000 bottles of Topamax were recalled. And, in March 34,000 bottles of Tylenol 8-Hour Extended Release capsules were recalled. All of these recalls were due to odor issues, though the specific cause may not have been the same.
• 43 million bottles of Tylenol, Benadryl, Sinutab and Sudafed were pulled in January because they were processed in a plant, in Fort Washington, PA, that may not have been properly cleaned.
• In late 2010 the company recalled Mylanta and Tylenol products because they were improperly labeled, omitting the fact that they contain small amounts of alcohol.
• In late 2009 the company conducted recalls of Tylenol Arthritis due to a foul odor.
The company reports that in the current recall, there is no risk to the consumer associated with CPAA, which is why a consumer recall has not been issued. However, considering all the recalls the company has conducted recently, if you have this product you may wish to replace it.
Primary Source: http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2011/08/15/jj-recall-watch-tylenol-cold-gelcaps-pulled/