Novartis Recalls Potentially Mixed Up Meds

NEW YORK (MainStreet) — Novartis Consumer Health Inc. has recalled certain packages of Excedrin, NoDoz, Bufferin and Gas-X Prevention products because they may contain foreign tablets or pieces of foreign tablets from other over-the-counter meds.

The recall applies to certain Excedrin and NoDoz products with expiration dates of Dec. 20, 2014 or earlier as well as Bufferin and Gas-X Prevention products with expiry dates of Dec. 20, 2013 or earlier distributed nationwide to wholesalers and retailers.

A full list of the over-the-counter medications included in the recall is available on the Novartis website.

The mixed medications can cause someone to take a higher or lower strength than intended or cause the consumer to ingest an unintended ingredient, both of which can lead to overdose, harmful interactions with other medications a consumer may be taking or an allergic reaction, Novartis said in a press release issued on Sunday.  However, thus far the company is not aware of any adverse reactions as a result of the recall.

Consumers are being advised to stop using the products. To receive a full refund, you can contact the Novartis Consumer Relationship Center at 1-888-477-2403 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.

Consumers should also contact their physician or health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using these drug products. They can report any adverse effects to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration online.

—Jeanine Skowronski is staff reporter for MainStreet. You can reach her by email at Skowronski.jeanine@thestreet.com, or follow her on Twitter at @JeanineSko.