Packaging error leads to product recall on 120,000 packs of Boots Paracetamol

Almost 120,000 packs of Nottingham-based Boots Paracetamol have been recalled after a packaging error.

People who have purchased Boots Paracetamol 500mg Tablets 16s (Item code 81-99-922, Batch 241005, Expiry date 12/2029) are advised to stop using the product immediately and return it to a Boots store for a full refund, says the The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), which is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.

The MHRA has issued a medicines recall alert due to a packaging error where the foil blister inside the carton incorrectly states ‘Aspirin 300mg Dispersible Tablets’ instead of ‘Paracetamol 500mg Tablets’. The Boots Company PLC and the supplier, Aspar Pharmaceuticals Limited, have confirmed that the tablets in the blister packs are Paracetamol 500mg and not aspirin, and are conducting a full investigation into the issue.

Dr Stephanie Millican, MHRA deputy director Benefit Risk Evaluation, said: “Patient safety is always our priority. It is vitally important that you check the packaging of your Boots Paracetamol 500mg Tablets 16s, and if the batch number is 241005, you should stop using the product and return it to a Boots store for a full refund.

“If you are unsure which pack you have purchased or have taken Boots Paracetamol 500mg Tablets and experienced any side effects, seek advice from a healthcare professional. Please report any suspected adverse reactions via the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.”

“If you have any questions or require further advice, please seek advice from your pharmacist or other relevant healthcare professional.”