Health Canada recalls nasal spray over possible bacterial contamination (2024)

The effects of the bacteria can range from no symptoms at all to serious infections.

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Montreal Gazette

Published Feb 19, 2024Last updated Feb 20, 20241 minute read

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Health Canada recalls nasal spray over possible bacterial contamination (1)

Health Canada has issued a recall for two lots of APO-Mometasone nasal spray over a possible bacterial contamination.

The product in question — used to treat allergy symptoms, sinusitis and nasal polyps — is “mometasone furoate aqueous nasal spray” or “50 mcg/metered spray” with expiry dates in September or October 2025.

Apotex Inc. recalled the items over possible contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex, a group of bacteria Health Canada described as posing minimal risk to healthy people.

“However, children, those with chronic lung diseases, people who are pregnant, seniors and those with a weakened immune system may be at a higher risk of illness,” the agency said.

It added that the effects of the bacteria can range from no symptoms at all to serious infections.

“In severe cases, Bcc can lead to bloodstream infections that may result in sepsis … and death,” Health Canada said. “Bcc is often resistant to common antibiotics. People experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, such as fevers, or facial pain or pressure, should seek medical attention.”

The agency suggested those with a recalled product return it to a local pharmacy for disposal.

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Health Canada recalls nasal spray over possible bacterial contamination (4)

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Health Canada recalls nasal spray over possible bacterial contamination (2024)

FAQs

Which nasal sprays have been recalled? ›

The affected APO-Mometasone sprays are from lot numbers TX5343 and TZ2586 and have expiry dates of September and October 2025. Health Canada says anyone who has the recalled sprays should return them to a local pharmacy for proper disposal.

Is there a recall on fluticasone propionate nasal spray? ›

Company Announcement. Apotex Corp. is voluntarily recalling one (1) lot of Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray, USP, 50 mcg per spray, 120 Metered Sprays, to the consumer level. The Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray USP 50 mcg per spray 120 Metered Sprays has been found to contain small glass particles.

Can Flonase get contaminated? ›

Conclusion: Nasal steroid spray bottle tips can become contaminated with sinonasal cavity bacteria.

Is there a recall on Apo Mometasone nasal spray? ›

Health Canada is advising that Apotex is recalling two lots of mometasone furoate aqueous nasal spray (APO-Mometasone) due to possible bacterial contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc). The recalled lots are TX5343 and TZ2586, which have expiry dates of Sep 2025 and Oct 2025, respectively.

What nasal spray not to use? ›

Nasal sprays containing either oxymetazoline or phenylephrine are the rebound congestion-inducing nasal sprays to use with caution. If a nasal spray contains either of these active ingredients, be sure to use only as directed on the label — three days or less.

Is there a nasal spray that is safe to use everyday? ›

Nasal steroids sprays (Flonase®, Nasocort®, Nasonex®, etc. ) are safe to use on a daily basis and are now largely over-the-counter. These sprays are non-addictive and typically do not cause any long term changes to the nasal passages.

Can bacteria live in nasal spray? ›

Nasal saline irrigations (NSIs) are very common and frequently used for patients with upper respiratory infections and allergic rhinitis. Unfortunately, contamination is a vulnerability and although it does not always lead to an infection, the ability for bacteria to contaminate these products is concerning.

Is there a class action lawsuit against Flonase? ›

A federal judge has approved a $150 million settlement by GlaxoSmithKline of a 33-member direct purchaser class action over allegations the drugmaker monopolized the market for its nasal spray Flonase. On Friday, U.S. District Senior Judge Anita B.

How do you sanitize nasal spray? ›

Rinse the cap, tube and bottle using free-flowing water. Fill the bottle with water. Add a small drop of dishwashing detergent to the interior of the bottle. Applying the cap and tube, hold your finger over the opening in the cap and shake the bottle vigorously.

Is budesonide nasal spray being discontinued? ›

Rhinocort is a discontinued brand for budesonide in the US.

Is mometasone nasal spray discontinued? ›

Determination That NASONEX (Mometasone Furoate) Nasal Spray, 0.05 Milligram/Spray (50 Microgram), Was Not Withdrawn From Sale for Reasons of Safety or Effectiveness.

When should I stop using mometasone nasal spray? ›

You can usually keep using mometasone nasal spray for up to 3 months. Once opened, however, the spray should be used within 2 months or thrown away. You'll need a new spray if you want to use it for longer. Tell your doctor if you feel no better after using it for 14 days.

What major nasal decongestant was recalled? ›

CDC has been notified of a voluntary recall of over-the-counter oxymetazoline HCl 0.05% nasal spray because of intrinsic contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex. The nasal spray is distributed as "Major Twice-A-Day 12 Hour Nasal Spray." The manufacturer (Propharma Inc., Miami, Florida) has recalled lot no.

Why was Flonase discontinued? ›

The nasal spray, known by its brand name Fluticasone Propionate Nasal Spray USP and manufactured by Apotex Corp., of Weston, Fla., was pulled voluntarily from the market by the company, which said the glass particles could clog the bottle and cause it to malfunction and, more importantly, abrade the inside of the nose.

What is the best and safest nasal spray? ›

The bottom line

OTC steroid and antihistamine nasal sprays work best for treating allergy symptoms. Common examples include Flonase Allergy Relief (fluticasone), Nasacort Allergy 24 Hour (triamcinolone), and Astepro Allergy (azelastine). They're safe for both adults and children to use every day.

Is there a recall on Ocean Saline nasal spray? ›

Valeant Pharmaceuticals is voluntarily recalling Ocean Saline Nasal Spray 1.5 fl. oz. and 3.5 fl. oz.

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