photo by Laura Johnson

Drug scare: Some types of Tylenol were pulled off local shelves after a recall earlier this month.

Types of Tylenol recalled

Consumers reported stomachaches nausea after taking medicines

By Laura Johnson | Alex City Outlook

Published Monday, January 25, 2010

Last week certain types of Tylenol were pulled due to a voluntary recall, but local pharmacists believe the remaining bottle of the popular painkiller are safe to use.

“(Consumers) should not be alarmed,” said Sherry Richardson, pharmacist at The Medicine Shoppe. “There are some versions of the Tylenol product on shelves that were not affected by this recall.”

Only certain batches of the affected variations including extra strength, children’s and others were pulled. Several more variations of the drug were deemed safe and remained on the shelves.

As a result, local pharmacies had to pull as few as five bottles from the shelves. However, some people are turning to alterative over-the-counter painkillers for relief.

“There are plenty of generics that are available, so they do have other options,” said Krystal Jackson, pharmacist for Jackson Drugs.

In addition to turning to off-brand drugs, some consumers can also use alternative medicines such Aleve and ibuprofen, though Jackson recommends exercising caution when changing medications. She said some people, including those who take blood thinners, should avoid taking Aleve and ibuprofen.

“Our generic sales are usually pretty high anyway,” Jackson said.

The recalled variations of the drugs have caused stomachaches that have lead to vomiting and diarrhea in some consumers, according to a release on the drug company’s Web site.

“The company is initiating this recall following an investigation of consumer reports of an unusual moldy, musty, or mildew-like odor that, in a small number of cases, was associated with temporary and non-serious gastrointestinal events,” the release stated.

Although recalls sometimes spark concern and resident’s pharmacist said they have heard little reaction about the recall from the community.

“I would think a lot of people would be upset our concerned about it because it’s a popular brand,” Jackson said.

Residents who want to find out if the Tylenol in their medicine cabinet has been recalled can consult the drug maker’s Web site at www.mcneilproductrecall.com. Once on the Tylenol Web page, consumers need to check the lot number and label.

Those who don’t have Internet access, but would like to know if their Tylenol is safe can bring it to Rite Aid. There, a pharmacist will check the medication for residents.

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