Defective packaging prompts allergy medication product recall

Allergy sufferers just breathed a collective sigh of relief that spring pollen season is on its way out in Kentucky, but a new product recall means it might be time to check the medicine cabinet again.

Defective packaging caused the Food and Drug Administration to recall almost 30,000 packages of pseudoephedrine sulfate and loratadine in their extended-release form. Anyone who purchased these allergy medications in the last several months should verify whether they have the affected products on hand.

This isn’t the first time that drug company Ranbaxy has had quality troubles with U.S. regulators, either. The FDA already prohibited the company, based in New Delhi, India, from sending any drug products to the United States. Regulators alleged a series of plant problems that led to substandard products entering the country for over-the-counter use. Concerns over product liability often encourage federal regulators to investigate plants and manufacturers.

Ranbaxy also made the news last May when they pleaded guilty on felony charges involving shipment and manufacturing of their products. The FDA has been monitoring their production and shipment, issuing import alerts as necessary.

Medication recalls are a serious business for those who have already taken or purchased the products, even though prescription drugs typically get more recall attention. A variety of problems can cause a medication to be recalled, such as improper packaging, label mistakes, failure to include particular warnings, or side effects that are critical and dangerous in nature.

Although their over-the-counter access makes allergy and other medications seem relatively harmless, substandard products can cause major problems for consumers, including health risks. Unsafe or defective products can result in serious injuries or illnesses, and manufacturers have a responsibility to take these products off the market when such issues are identified.

Those affected by a defective product may want to speak with an attorney to help determine their rights. Victims may be eligible to take legal action and pursue compensation for damages caused by the product.

Source: Headlines & Global News, “Ranbaxy Allergy Medicine Recall: Company Brings Back 29,790 For Defective Packaging,” Justin Stock, May 2, 2014