Robitussin Recalled for Microbial Contamination

Check your cough syrup with the list below of affected batches

Cough. Sneeze. Gurgle. Sniff. Repeat. 

We all know that cold and flu season is terrible. Everyone gets a gunky, icky cold or virus once in a while, and it’s not fun. 

For many people, that telltale first big sneeze or stuffiness in the head leaves us reaching for the easiest, most cost-effective and accessible remedy—the over-the-counter cold medicine. 

But if you recently purchased certain types of Robitussin, beware. 

In January 2024, the manufacturer of Robitussin initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of some lots of Robitussin Honey CF Max Day Adult and Robitussin Honey CF Max Nighttime Adult cough syrups. 

The recall was issued in response to concerns about microbial contamination. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said that anyone who has the product at home should stop using it immediately. Haleon, the manufacturer, said that it discovered elevated levels of yeast in some units of the medicine. Yeast is naturally part of honey, but the levels detected in Robitussin were above allowable amounts.

What makes the Robitussin contamination dangerous?

A consumer who is immune-compromised could experience a severe or life-threatening complication like fungemia or a disseminated fungal infection from using the contaminated Robitussin. 

Most users are not likely to develop a life-threatening infection but the company said it could not rule out the possibility, and therefore the recall was necessary. The FDA advised that if a person who has taken one of the recalled Robitussin products has experienced any problems or has concerns, they should contact their physician.

What if you’re sick and Robitussin is recalled?

Doctors recommend hydration and hot beverages to provide similar relief to cough syrups. Honey can help, too, because it soothes the nerves in the back of your throat.

To date, there have been no reported adverse events related to this recall. Haleon has been proactive in notifying its distributors and customers, and has provided instructions for the return of all recalled products. Consumers who have purchased any of the affected products are advised to cease consumption immediately and contact Haleon's Consumer Relations team for further guidance.

Consumers can contact Haleon's Consumer Relations team at (800) 245-1040 or via email at [email protected] for more information and guidance.

This incident highlights the importance of stringent quality control measures in the pharmaceutical industry, especially for products that are widely used by the public. The swift action taken by Haleon and the FDA in this case serves to protect consumers and ensure public health and safety.