Packets of one antibiotic medication are being recalled from suppliers due to an extra tablet found in some batches. Nitrofurantoin is a drug used to treat and stave off urinary tract infections such as cystitis.
It works by entering bacterial cells and killing them through damage to their DNA. Supplied by CNX Therapeutics, the drug typically comes in blister packs which contain powder and two yellow tablets.
However, some packs have mistakenly included an additional yellow tablet, not from broken capsules but due to a manufacturing error. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has informed suppliers to set aside all affected products marked with two specific batch numbers, distributed last December.
In an update, the MHRA also added: “Should a patient present a pack containing an extra tablet, the tablet may be removed, and the patient assured that the capsule is safe to take, stating the extra tablet did not come from the capsule.”
Individuals who find themselves with one of these packets should return it to the pharmacy where it originated, reports the Express.
The MHRA further noted: “If you find a pack containing an additional tablet, please take the medication to the dispensing pharmacy you obtained the medicine from. Patients may continue to take capsules from non-impacted packs as prescribed by your healthcare professional.
“A small percentage of blister pockets have been found to contain an additional yellow tablet alongside the capsule, these are from the manufacturing process and not from broken capsules.
“Patients that have taken the additional tablet with the capsule have ingested a higher dose of nitrofurantoin than was intended, however, the effects are understood and this should not have caused harm.
“Patients who experience adverse reactions or have any questions about the medication should seek medical attention. Any suspected adverse reactions should also be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.”
Individuals with medical enquiries are encouraged to contact 0207 821 2840 or [email protected]