500,000 bootles of Calpol are recalled; Children's medicine warning.
AN URGENT alert went out to parents last night as 500,000 bottles of popular children's medicine Calpol were recalled.Two versions of the cough and cold cure were withdrawn, amid fears that they contain a dangerously high level of paracetamol. And families were urged to see their doctor if they have given the medicine to a child in the last two or three days.
The mixtures at risk are Calpol Paediatric Suspension and Calpol Paediatric Sugar Free Suspension. They are recommended for children aged from two to six. The manufacturers, pharmaceuticals giant Warner Lambert, have found evidence of "separation".
Its European chief Dr Nick Pickvance said last night: "Our studies have shown that, as a result of this separation, paracetamol is concentrated in the top layer.
"If the medicine was shaken as directed, there would be no safety risk.
"But as a precautionary measure, we are withdrawing the bottles and recalling all supplies from our wholesalers."
Dr Pickvance said the company considered the risk "minimal". He added: "We would ask parents to contact their doctors if they have given this medicine to their child in the last two or three days."
Anyone who has a suspect bottle at home should return it to a chemist immediately.
Bosses stressed that the alert applied only to PRESCRIBED versions of Calpol. It does not include mixtures sold directly over the counter in a purple carton.
The prescription versions have been given out since December 1 last year.
About 500,000 bottles have been produced by Warner Lambert, although the vast majority are thought to be still with wholesalers.
Products NOT affected are: Calpol Infant Suspension 70ml, 140ml and sachets, Calpol Sugar Free Infant Suspension 140ml and sachets, Calpol Six Plus and Calpol Six Plus Sugar Free Colour Free 100ml.
A 24-hour free helpline has been set up by the company - which is acting in consultation with the watchdog Medicines Control Agency.
The number to ring is 0800 389 3897.
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| Author: | Peacock, John |
|---|---|
| Publication: | The Mirror (London, England) |
| Date: | Feb 11, 1999 |
| Words: | 327 |
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