A leading manufacturer of over-the-counter health products has just announced a voluntary recall of several potentially contaminated cough syrups sold under its popular Robitussin brand.
On January 24th 2024, the pharmaceutical company Haleon alerted consumers that select lots of Robitussin Honey CF Max Day and Nighttime cough medicines may contain microbial contamination. The recall was issued in cooperation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after quality testing revealed the presence of unspecified microbes.
While no related illnesses have been reported to date, the company is urging customers not to ingest any of the affected products as a precautionary measure. Immunocompromised individuals are especially at risk of developing serious fungal infections if exposed to contaminated medications.
The recall impacts Robitussin Honey CF Max syrups packaged in 4 and 8-ounce bottles that were distributed nationwide. Only specific lot numbers and expiration dates are included:
Robitussin Honey CF Max Daytime – 4oz Lot: T10810
Exp: 10/31/2025
Robitussin Honey CF Max Daytime – 8oz Lots: T08730, T08731, T08732, T08733, T10808 Exp: 5/31/2025 (Lots T08730-T08733), 9/20/2025 (Lot T10808)
Robitussin Honey CF Max Nighttime – 8oz Lots: T08740, T08742 Exp: 6/30/2026
Consumers are advised to check any Robitussin Honey CF Max products in their possession and discard any bottles with the flagged lot numbers and expiration dates. The affected medicines can be identified by their display of “True Source Certified Honey” on the label.
According to the announcement, the source and type of microbial contamination has not been specified. Haleon stated that exposure is unlikely to cause harm in healthy individuals but poses a more significant risk to those who are immunocompromised. The FDA recommends that anyone experiencing an adverse reaction after taking the cough syrup contact their healthcare provider right away.
The voluntary recall of the popular cold and flu medications comes at the height of the winter illness season. With COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory infections still widespread, many households regularly stock Robitussin brand cough suppressants and expectorants to help relieve severe cough and chest congestion symptoms.
This is not the first time manufacturing issues have prompted recalls of contaminated over-the-counter medications. Quality control and product safety continue to be challenges for major pharmaceutical companies supplying consumer healthcare products worldwide.
By promptly alerting customers and removing potentially affected inventory, Haleon aims to prevent further distribution and use of the recalled cough syrups. Consumers are advised to monitor the FDA website and Haleon’s recall announcements for any updates. Prompt reporting of microbial contamination reflects favorably on the manufacturer’s commitment to transparency and public health.
