Massive Benadryl Recall Issued Due to Child Poisoning Hazard

A significant recall has been issued for thousands of bottles of liquid Benadryl due to a critical safety flaw: the absence of child-resistant packaging. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the voluntary recall, highlighting the potential risk of accidental poisoning to young children. The recall underscores the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations and the potentially devastating consequences when these regulations are overlooked.

Arsell Inc., the Brooklyn-based company responsible for the product, is initiating the recall of specific batches of their Benadryl Liquid Elixir. The core issue lies in the product’s failure to comply with the Poison Prevention Packaging Act, which mandates that medications containing potentially harmful substances, such as diphenhydramine, be packaged in a way that makes it significantly difficult for young children to access them. Diphenhydramine, a common antihistamine used to treat allergies, can be dangerous, even fatal, to children if ingested in large quantities. The lack of child-resistant packaging circumvents this crucial safeguard, creating a serious hazard in households with young children.

The CPSC’s online recall notice explicitly states the risk, emphasizing that the non-compliant packaging could lead to poisoning if a young child were to swallow the contents of the bottle. This is a stark warning that highlights the gravity of the situation. The potential consequences of accidental ingestion range from mild drowsiness and disorientation to more severe complications such as seizures, coma, and even death, particularly in very young children.

Thankfully, the CPSC reports that, to date, there have been no reported cases of children becoming ill as a result of this packaging defect. This is fortunate, but it doesn’t diminish the urgency of the recall. Preventative action is crucial to avoid any future incidents. The recall is a proactive measure designed to prevent a potential tragedy before it occurs.

The specific product being recalled is the Benadryl Liquid Elixir 100 mL bottle. The bottles are easily identifiable by their round, dark plastic container and a pink and white label prominently displaying the word "Benadryl" in blue text. Consumers who have purchased this specific version of the product should immediately take steps to ensure the safety of their children and dispose of the product properly.

Adding another layer of detail, the recalled product, manufactured in Canada, was sold in a paper box and features a white label on the bottom of the bottle with the code "X003VRIGUL" printed in black text. This code is a crucial identifier for consumers to quickly and accurately determine if they have purchased a recalled bottle. Careful examination of the product label is essential for ensuring complete and effective participation in the recall process.

The product was sold exclusively through Amazon.com between July 2023 and October 2024, with a price range of $16 to $19 per bottle. This information is important for consumers who may have purchased the product through this online retailer during the specified timeframe. It allows them to cross-reference their purchase history and verify whether they are in possession of a recalled product.

The recommended course of action for consumers who have purchased the recalled Benadryl Liquid Elixir is straightforward: they should immediately dispose of the product. The recall emphasizes the importance of not using the product under any circumstances, given the inherent safety risk it poses to children.

In addition to disposal, consumers are also entitled to a full refund for the recalled product. To claim the refund, consumers are required to submit their Amazon order number along with a photograph that clearly demonstrates the disposal of the recalled Benadryl bottle. These materials must be sent to a designated email address: [email protected]. This process ensures proper documentation and verification for the refund claim.

The recall specifically targets the bottle itself due to the packaging defect. However, authorities strongly advise consumers to dispose of both the bottle and the medicine within, to eliminate any possibility of misuse or accidental ingestion. This cautious approach further emphasizes the importance of prioritizing safety above all else.

The announcement stresses that individuals with any concerns about their health or the health of their children should immediately contact a healthcare provider. Medical professionals can provide guidance and address any potential health risks associated with the product or its ingredients. Furthermore, anyone who suspects their child has experienced adverse effects related to the recalled product should seek immediate medical attention and report the incident to the appropriate authorities.

The potential for serious harm underscores the gravity of this recall. A failure in quality control measures has the potential to have far-reaching and devastating effects on families. The situation highlights the importance of strict safety standards and rigorous testing in the pharmaceutical industry. It also serves as a reminder that even seemingly minor packaging defects can have significant and potentially life-threatening consequences.

The recall is being handled by Arsell Inc., with cooperation from the CPSC and Amazon.com. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the recall is conducted efficiently and effectively, minimizing the risk to consumers and maximizing the number of recalled products retrieved. It is a collective effort to protect children and prevent potential harm.