Some of the most common allergy medicines and pain relievers for babies and young children have been recalled because of manufacturing problems.
The impact of the recall could be huge, as most medicine cabinets in homes with young children are fully stocked with liquid pain relievers and allergy medicines.
McNeil, a division of Johnson & Johnson, is voluntarily recalling 43 child and infant formulations of Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec and Benadryl.
The company says internal testing showed some of the products may contain higher concentrations of an active ingredient. Other products may contain tiny particles.
"McNeil felt that while none of their products were actually released to the public, they couldn't be sure," says Dr. Alfred Aleguas of Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital.
The recall is for liquid drops, syrups and oral suspensions in various flavors. It does not include chewables.
No injuries have been reported, and the company says chances of any adverse reactions are remote.
Still experts warn parents not to give their children any of the recalled products.
Consumers can either return their products for a refund, or exchange them for new products once the company's manufacturing problems are resolved.
In the meantime experts say parents should not give their kids medications meant for adults.
"It very easily could lead to an inadvertent overdose. So it's not recommended at all," says Dr. Aleguas.
There are alternative brands on the market, including generics.
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