Costco-brand cold and flu medication recalled by FDA: Here’s what to know
Costco-brand Kirkland Severe Cold & Flu Medicine Recalled Due to Quality Control Issues
A popular cold and flu medicine from Costco has been pulled from shelves after a recall by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA). The Kirkland Severe Cold & Flu Plus Congestion Day and Night packs, totaling 8,640 boxes, were deemed ineffective by the FDA due to the active ingredient oral phenylephrine. This recall comes after the FDA’s proposal to ban the use of this ingredient as an over-the-counter nasal decongestant.
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News senior medical analyst, supported the decision to recall the product, stating that oral phenylephrine is not effective in treating cold and flu symptoms. In fact, at high doses, it can lead to heart toxicity, palpitations, arrhythmia, and high blood pressure.
The FDA categorized this recall as a Class II recall, meaning that the use of the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. The FDA emphasized that the released product should have been rejected due to quality control issues.
Pharmacist Katy Dubinsky explained that the recall likely occurred due to deviations from Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP), which is a set of quality control standards. She reassured consumers that the active ingredients in the product, including acetaminophen, dextromethorphan, guaifenesin, and phenylephrine, are safe when taken as directed.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled Kirkland Cold & Flu product with lot numbers P139953 or P139815 and an expiration date of August 2026 are advised to stop using it immediately. If any concerns or symptoms arise after taking the product, individuals should consult with a healthcare professional.
Recalls like this are crucial to maintaining the safety and trustworthiness of over-the-counter medications. By addressing manufacturing inconsistencies and quality control issues, the FDA and Costco aim to protect consumers and ensure the effectiveness of their products.
