Pfizer Recalls Robitussin Cough Syrup Due To Errors In Labeling

The FDA has reported that Pfizer has voluntarily issued drug recalls of some of its products because of errors in labeling. The Food and Drug Administration ordered the pharmaceutical company to recall its cough syrup because of its potential health hazards to consumers.

Pfizer Consumer Healthcare issued drug recalls for its products that fell under the Robitussin DM category. The cough syrup was alleged to contain 15 milligrams of a cough suppressant called Dextomethorphan HBr and 100 milligrams of an expectorant called Guaifenesin every per five milligrams. However, there were some discrepancies on both the carton and primary label in the section pertaining to dosage instructions, according to the FDA.

Nicolas Lutero III, an FDA officer-in-charge and assistant secretary of health, said that the erroneous label displayed wrong directives for children in the age category of two to six and instructed them to take 2.5 milligrams or one teaspoonful whereas the correct dosage should have been ½ a teaspoon only for every 6 hours. Further, Lutero said that due to continuous distribution and dissemination of the product to the consumers, the health risk had heightened. People were requested to discontinue the use of this cough syrup and return it to the drug store by coordinating with Pfizer.

Since this was over the counter (OTC) drug, the risk was higher because most parents rely on the dosage instructions given on the label for such medications. However, it was simultaneously advised that parents consult their doctors for giving the correct dosage to children.

An overdose of Dextomethorphan could lead to symptoms such as vomiting, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, convulsions and breathing problems.

The FDA is now delving deeper into this potentially explosive situation by asking all the drugstores to remove these drugs from their shelves.

If you feel that you or someone you love has been hurt as a result of prescription medicine errors, contact the St. Louis product liability lawyers at Zevan and Davidson Law Firm today. Schedule a free consultation by calling (314) 588-7200.

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