Warning about severe allergic reactions to recalled cold and flu tablets

Dec 22 2008

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) have recalled two types of cold and flu tablets following reports of a number of allergic and anaphylactic reactions.

The national recall applies to all packets of Nyal Cold and Flu Fighter, and Nyal Cold and Flu Fighter Day and Night and the TGA has advised people who have these medicines to return them to their place of purchase for a full refund.

The class 1 recall applies to all product batches and expiry dates - the products have been supplied Australia-wide primarily through Coles, Woolworths, Big W and Priceline stores and the recall means defects in the products are potentially life-threatening or could cause a serious risk to health.

The TGA says these products contain the herbs Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis), Sambucus nigra (Elderberry) and Salix alba (White willow), and the night-time tablet contains the herb Valeriana officinalis (Valerian).

While a specific cause for the adverse reactions to the herbal remedies has not yet been identified, consumers are advised to stop using the products immediately and return them to the place of purchase and anyone who has used one of these products recently and has concerns, should consult their doctor.