ALERT: Popular Cough Syrup Recalled Due to Possible Fungus

Some of the popular cough syrup products, Robitussin, are being recalled nationwide due to potentially deadly microbial contamination.

The company that makes Robitussin syrups did not specify which microorganisms may be in the products. The recall announcement from the global consumer health products company Haleon stated that the contamination could lead to fungal infections or the presence of fungi or yeasts in a person’s blood. So far, the company has not received any reports of people being sickened by the recalled products.

The recall applies to bottles of Robitussin Honey CF Max Day and Robitussin Honey CF Max Nighttime. Both varieties are for adults. Affected products were sold nationwide and have specific lot numbers printed at the bottom of the back of the bottles. Consumers can view the lot numbers on the FDA’s recall webpage.

People with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of life-threatening health problems due to the cough syrup, the company warned.

In immunocompromised individuals, the use of the affected product could potentially result in severe or life-threatening adverse events such as fungemia or disseminated fungal infection. In non-immunocompromised consumers, the population most likely to use the product, life-threatening infections are not likely to occur. However, the occurrence of an infection that may necessitate medical intervention cannot be completely ruled out.

To date, Haleon has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall.

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Robitussin Honey CF Max Day and Nighttime are cough syrups indicated for the temporary relief of symptoms occurring with cold or flu, hay fever, or other respiratory allergies. This recall covers only the following lots:

Haleon is notifying its distributors and customers directly and has provided them with instructions for the return of all recalled products. Consumers that have purchased the product listed should stop consumption immediately. Please call our Consumer Relations team at +1-800-245-1040 (Monday through Friday 8 AM to 6 PM Eastern Time) or reach out via email to [email protected].

Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this product.

Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
• Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

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How to Use Cough Syrup Effectively

If you are taking over-the-counter products to self-treat, follow all directions on the product package before

taking this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. If your doctor has prescribed this medication, take it as directed.

Take the tablet, capsule, or liquid form by mouth with or without food. This medication may be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs.

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. Do not increase your dose or take this drug more often than directed. Do not take more of this medication than recommended for your age. There are many brands and forms of this product available. Read the dosing instructions carefully for each product because the amount of cough suppressant and antihistamine may be different between products.

If you are using the chewable tablets, chew each tablet well and swallow. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/cup. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.

If you are using a product made to dissolve in the mouth (such as strips), dry your hands before handling the medication. Place each dose on the tongue and allow to dissolve completely, then swallow it with saliva or with water.

If your symptoms do not improve after 7 days, if they worsen or return, if you develop a headache that doesn’t go away, fever, or rash, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.