Children’s cough syrup recall; what parents need to know

1280x960_01107K00-DQGOUChildren’s cough syrup sold at many retailers across the country, including CVS, Rite-Aid and Dollar General, is being recalled because dosing cups with the wrong markings were included in the packaging, triggering concern that children could get sick after an overdose.

Pharmaceutical manufacturer Perrigo is voluntarily recalling several batches of its cherry and grape over the counter 4 oz. bottles of children’s cough syrup.

The company said it hasn’t received any reports of overdose, but it said an overdose of Guaifenesin DM may cause a long list of side effects including hyper excitability, rapid eye movements, changes in muscle reflexes, ataxia, dystonia, hallucinations, stupor, and coma. Other effects have included nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, irregular heartbeat, seizures, respiratory depression, and death.

“Perrigo is taking this action to maintain the highest possible product quality standards for our retail customers and consumers. We are taking this action because it is the right thing to do,” Perrigo’s Chairman and CEO Joseph C. Papa said in a statement.

Recalled lots and corresponding branded labels:

CHERRY LIQ 4 OZ

Label Lot number EXP.
Sunmark 5LK0528, 5LK0630 03/2017
Rite-Aid 5LK0528, 5LK0630 03/2017
Topcare 5LK0528, 5LK0630, 5LK0779 03/2017
Kroger 5LK0528, 5LK0630 03/2017
GoodSense 5LK0528 03/2017
Dollar General 5LK0630 03/2017
Care One 5LK0630 03/2017
CVS 5LK0630 03/2017

GRAPE LIQ 4 OZ

Label Lot number Exp.
H.E.B 5LK0592 08/2017
CVS 5MK0340 08/2017

If you have this product with the above label and lot number, Perrigo said you should throw out the dosing cup and the product.

More information about the recall is available from the FDA and Perrigo.

 

Jon Chrisos

About Jon Chrisos

Award-winning journalist Jon Chrisos is the investigative and consumer reporter at CBS 13 in Portland. He also anchors weeknights at 5:30. Chrisos is “On Your Side” investigating the stories that make a difference in your life. He’s passionate about helping those who’ve been wronged, exposing government waste, asking tough questions, and uncovering the truth.