Consumers are being urged to check their medicine cabinets after a nationwide recall was issued for certain bottles of generic cetirizine, an over-the-counter allergy medication commonly sold as the generic equivalent of Zyrtec.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the recall affects select 5-milligram cetirizine hydrochloride tablets distributed by Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories.
The recall was initiated after a pharmacy technician reportedly discovered tablets of a different color while counting the medication. An investigation found that some bottles may contain ranitidine tablets instead of cetirizine.
Ranitidine, formerly sold under the brand name Zantac, was commonly used to treat heartburn, ulcers and acid indigestion. While many people may not experience problems, the FDA warns that individuals who are hypersensitive or allergic to ranitidine could suffer serious reactions, including anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic emergency.
At this time, no illnesses or injuries have been reported in connection with the recall.
The affected medication was sold at retailers across the United States. Consumers who have bottles of 5 mg generic cetirizine tablets should check the lot number printed on the side of the bottle to determine whether their medication is included in the recall. The FDA has published a complete list of affected lot numbers on its website.
Anyone who believes they have experienced an adverse reaction after taking the medication should seek medical attention immediately and report the incident through the FDA's MedWatch program.
For questions about the recall, consumers may also contact the distributor directly.
The Morehead Minute Reminder: If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medication, never stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider or pharmacist. If you believe you have a recalled product, speak with your pharmacist about a safe replacement.
