Cetylev (acetylcysteine) Effervescent Tablets for Oral Solution by Arbor Pharmaceuticals: Recall - Inadequate Seal of Blister Pack

[Posted 08/18/2016]

AUDIENCE: Pharmacy, Nursing, Emergency Medicine

ISSUE: Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC announced a voluntary recall of three (3) lots of Cetylev (acetylcysteine) effervescent tablets for oral solution, 500 mg, due to an inadequate seal of the blister pack. An inadequate seal could result in an increase of oxygen and moisture entering the blister cavity which can start the effervescent process. This results in enlarged and swelled tablets which could also completely dissolve within the blister pack.

The improper seal of the product can lead to a potentially sub-therapeutic dose as well as potential microbial contamination. Because the effectiveness of acetylcysteine to prevent or lessen hepatic injury after ingestion of acetaminophen is delayed with decreased therapy, sub-therapeutic dosing could lead to increased risk of liver injury. With regards to the potential microbial contamination due to moisture ingress into the tablets, the risk of serious infection is increased in certain patient populations such as children, pregnant women, immunosuppressed patients, and patients on gastric acid suppression therapy such as proton pump inhibitors.

Three lots of the 500 mg strength (Lot Numbers 005C16, 006C16, and 007C16, expiration date 02/2018) with NDC 24338-700-10 are included in the recall.

BACKGROUND: Cetylev (acetylcysteine) effervescent tablets for oral solution are indicated as an antidote for acetaminophen overdose indicated to prevent or lessen hepatic injury after ingestion of a potentially hepatotoxic quantity of acetaminophen in patients with acute ingestion or from repeated supratherapeutic ingestion.

RECOMMENDATION: Healthcare facilities should immediately discontinue use from these lots of product and return all unused Cetylev to Arbor. Consumers with questions regarding this recall should contact Arbor Pharmaceuticals, LLC at 1-866-516-4950, Monday through Friday, during business hours of 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

[08/18/2016 - Press Release - Arbor Pharmaceuticals]