Common Cold, Flu Medicine Recalled Due to Potential Health Risks; Canadians Advised Not to Use Them

Health Canada recently released a health advisory notifying Canadians to not use the common cold and flu medications from one pharmaceutical company because of its possible health risks.

The Government of Canada said on its website that these multiple generic medications are from CellChem Pharmaceuticals, Inc. that were sold in pouches of dissolvable powder authorized for use in adults and children 12 years old and above.

(Photo: Pixabay/Myriams-Fotos)
Common Cold and Flu Medicine Recalled Due to Potential Health Risks; Canadians Advised Not to Use Them

The Issue on Cold and Influenza Product Recall

Yahoo! Finance reported that Health Canada had identified several issues on the over-the-counter common cold and flu medications that CellChem Pharmaceuticals, Inc. manufactured.

Health Canada stated that the company cannot demonstrate that products are safe and in good condition until their expiry date. They also discovered that multiple medicines contained active ingredients, like acetaminophen, which were not part of the ingredients listed on the product's label.

According to WebMD, acetaminophen is a painkiller used to relieve headaches, menstrual cramps, toothaches, backaches, osteoarthritis, cold and flu aches, and reduce fever. However, it should be taken as prescribed by a doctor. Although it may not have any side effects, it is advisable to immediately seek medical help if allergic reactions occur.

Furthermore, Yahoo! Finance reported that the medicines also contained less active ingredients than the quantity listed on the label, which could make it less effective or lead to exceeding maximum daily doses. Products with too much acetaminophen could cause nausea, vomiting, lethargy, sweating, appetite loss, pain, and even liver damage.

Experts said that patients might initially feel abdominal pain as the first sign of liver damage and disappear for a day or two. The risks are greater in children and adolescents who take the wrong dosage of the medicine.

The company has initiated a product recall since September 2021, starting with powdered cold and influenza medications and expanding to additional products affected in the investigation. The company has also stopped selling those products as Health Canada continues to monitor the company's recall and implementation of corrective and preventative actions.

ALSO READ: 78 Sunscreens Contaminated With Cancer-Causing Chemical, Testing Lab Urges FDA for Recall

Health Canada's Advice Against Using Recalled Products

Since multiple generic store brands of cold and flu powdered medications intended for adults and children 12 years old and above are currently recalled by CellChem Pharmaceuticals, Inc. as ordered by Health, the Government of Canada has also released some guidelines that Canadians should follow.

The first on their list is to stop using the recalled products listed on their website. They also advise those who could have taken a recalled product, especially those with health concerns, to consult their healthcare provider immediately.

Moreover, they ask Canadians to follow municipal or regional guidelines on disposing of the chemicals and other hazardous wastes, such as the recalled products. Canadians also have the option of returning the product to their local pharmacy for proper disposal.

For more concerns, they could directly contact CellChem Pharmaceuticals at their number 1-844-481-8884 or email at info@cellchempharma.com. Health Canada is also open for any reports regarding health-product side effects and complaints.