Some packs of paracetamol have been recalled (Image: Getty)
Shoppers have been warned not to take some paracetamol tablets as they could potentially be “dangerous”. Boots cleared the shelves of a batch of the painkiller after some boxes were found to contain blister packs marked aspirin.
The pharmaceutical giant says an investigation has been launched. And they urged customers to inspect their packs before taking the medication.
The affected product is the Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets, which contain 16 tablets. Boots described the product as “dangerous” saying one batch – number 241005 – “contains the incorrect packaging.”
It added: “The foiled blister insert will read Boots Aspirin 300mg dispersible tablets. The supplier is currently conducting a full investigation, including on the tablet.
“Please do not take this product and instead return it to your local Boots store for a full refund.” It added that the affected item is: Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets 16s: Item code 81-99-922; Batch 241005; Expiry date 12/2029, reports .
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It continued: “If you have bought the Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets 16s item code 81-99-922 as detailed above, please return the product to your local Boots store for a full refund with or without a receipt. For more information please contact Boots Customer Care Team on 0800 915 0004.”
The notice does not clarify where the error occurred. It also does not confirm whether the tablets in the package are paracetamol or aspirin.
According to the NHS, paracetamol is a commonly used painkiller for treating aches and pains, and can also be used to reduce high temperatures.
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It is a common ingredient in many cold and flu remedies, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Those considering taking the medication are urged to consult with a doctor or pharmacist if they:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicine
- have liver or kidney problems
- regularly drink more than the maximum amount of alcohol recommended (14 units a week)
Individuals weighing less than 50kg (8 stone) should also seek medical advice before using it. This is because they may require a lower dosage.
Aspirin, another everyday painkiller, can be used for various ailments including headaches, toothaches, period pain, and symptoms of colds and flu, as well as reducing high temperatures. Known scientifically as acetylsalicylic acid, it falls under the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
A pack of the affected tablets (Image: Boots)
However, the NHS advises that certain individuals must inform their doctor or pharmacist before taking this medication. These include those who:
- have ever had an allergy to aspirin or similar painkillers such as
- have ever had a
- have recently had a (although depending on the kind of stroke you’ve had, your doctor may recommend that you take to prevent another one)
- have
- have
- have or lung disease
- have ever had a blood clotting problem
- have liver or kidney problems
- have – it can get worse for some people who take aspirin
- have – they can get heavier with aspirin
- are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding