Information Update - Compliments Extra Strength Acetaminophen Gelcaps Labelling Error: May Cause Serious Harm to Children

OTTAWA, April 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - Health Canada is advising Canadians that Vita Health Products is conducting a voluntary recall of five lots (see chart below) of Compliments Extra Strength Acetaminophen Gelcaps 500mg (bottles of 120 gelcaps).

The products are being recalled because its packaging suggests the product is child resistant but the product has been packaged with a non child resistant cap. As such, there is no child safety mechanism, which presents a risk to children who are able to open the bottle and ingest the product. The risk of ingestion by children less than 12 years of age can result in acetaminophen overdose and serious health consequences including liver damage. Early signs of overdose include nausea, vomiting lethargy and sweating. Liver damage may result in liver failure or death.

Vita Health Products is requesting that retailers immediately stop sale of this product and return their products to the company. To date, Vita Health Products has confirmed the products were distributed to Sobeys & IGA retail locations. It's also important to note that they may also be found at other retail locations across Canada.

Health Canada is monitoring the recall by Vita Health Products. Should new information be identified, Health Canada will continue to provide an update to Canadians.

Health Canada reminds Canadians who have concerns about these products to consult with their health care practitioner. Canadians wishing more information on this recall may contact Vita Health at 1-(800)-665-8820, Monday-Friday 9 am-5:30 pm EST for further instruction. Media wishing more information on this recall may contact Brian Ellis 1-804-675-8140

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How to report side effects to health products to Health Canada

• Call toll-free at 1-866-234-2345
• Visit MedEffect Canada's web page on Adverse Reaction Reporting for information on how to report online, by mail or by fax

SOURCE Health Canada