The maker of Robitussin, a popular cough remedy, has recalled eight lots of Robitussin Honey CF Max Day Adult and Robitussin Honey CF Max Nighttime Adult cough syrup due to microbial contamination, according to a January 24 announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
In people with immunocompromising conditions, using the contaminated cough syrups “could potentially result in severe or life-threatening adverse events such as fungemia or disseminated fungal infection,” according to the FDA.
According to the StatPearls, fungemia is the most common type of fungal bloodstream infection, with the elderly and very young being most susceptible. Symptoms can include chills, shivering, and fever that characterize sepsis as well as potentially fatal septic shock, marked by dangerously low blood pressure.
Haleon, which makes Robitussin, said that among the nonimmunocompromised, who are most likely to use the products, life-threatening illness is unlikely, but the possibility of hospitalization cannot be ruled out.
To date, Haleon hasn’t received any reports of adverse reactions.
The affected bottles have expiration dates in 2025 and 2026 and have the following lot numbers:
- T10810
- T08730
- T08731
- T08732
- T08733
- T10808
- T08740
- T08742
The lot number and expiration date can be found in the bottom right corner of the label. People who have purchased the affected Robitussin lots should stop using them immediately, the company said. If you suspect you’re experiencing any symptoms related to taking the contaminated product, you should contact your doctor immediately.
