Generic Acetaminophen Recall by Perrigo

Eleven million bottles of acetaminophen caplets manufactured by Perrigo are being actively recalled. CVS, SuperValu, Albertsons, and Cub Foods have already started removing the caplets from their stores.

The acetaminophen caplets were marketed under Walmart, CVS, SuperValu and Safeway brand labels as well as over 100 other retail brands. Name brand Tylenol is not affected. The recall applies only to those generic labels and only to 500 milligram caplets. The acetaminophen recall affects bottles up to three years old. 383 batches were affected.

The reason for the recall is because fragments of metal have been found in approximately 200 of the pills. The pieces of metal range in size from tiny 'microdots' to one-third of an inch long wire. These were the only details about the metal released.

So far, there have been no reports of health problems associated with the acetaminophen caplets. The FDA reported that the affected caplets may cause stomach discomfort or injury to the mouth or throat. They added that the risk of serious illness or injury was minimal.

The pieces of metal were found by Perrigo during quality control checks after the company's equipment had begun malfunctioning. It was not reported whether the malfunctioning equipment caused the the acetaminophen caplets to become contaminated.

Perrigo had a similar recall in May. They recalled 500 milligram pills that also contained acetaminophen as an active ingredient. The reason for the recall was because the pills contained acrylic mirror fragments.

Anyone wanting more information may call Perrigo directly at 877-546-0454.

Consumers may check acetaminophen caplets that they have bought by reading the batch number on the bottle label and seeing if it matches the batch list at this site.