FDA Recall Alert: Cough Syrup Sold to Illinois Parents May Cause Infection

You know that sweet little bottle of honey cough syrup you grab every time your kid starts sounding like a tiny chain smoker? Yeah... that might need to go straight in the trash.

The Recall Every Parent Should Know About

Medtech Products just issued a nationwide recall of Little Remedies Honey Cough Syrup due to bacterial contamination. The culprit? Bacillus cereus, a bacterium that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in high doses... yes, even death. The FDA announced on June 18 that the affected syrup has been sold in stores nationwide, including in Illinois.

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What This Bacteria Can Do

This isn't your run-of-the-mill tummy bug. Bacillus cereus is known for causing two types of foodborne illness. One can hit in just a few hours with nausea and stomach cramps. The other kicks in a little later with diarrhea and more cramps. While healthy kids might bounce right back, those with compromised immunity or high exposure levels could be in real danger.

Here's What to Look For

The recalled syrup comes in a 4 fl oz amber bottle, UPC 7-56184-10737-9. Lots include 0039, 0545, 0640, 0450, and 1198—basically any lot that hasn't expired yet is included in the recall.

Illinois parents: Check your medicine cabinet right now. If you've got this syrup, stop using it and call your pediatrician if your child has symptoms. You can contact Medtech for reimbursement, but your kid's health is the priority.

Consumers with refund requests or questions regarding this recall can contact Medtech via e-mail at medicalaffairs@prestigebrands.com, through its website at https://www.prestigebrands.com/contactExternal Link Disclaimer, or by phone at (800) 754-8853 on Monday–Friday 8:30-5:30 eastern time.

Visit fda.gov for more.