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Health Canada Health products

Natural health product (Spectrazyme) recalled due to potential contamination with the antibiotic chloramphenicol

Issued October 11, 2013
Issue
Metagenics Canada, in consultation with Health Canada, is voluntarily recalling its natural health product “Spectrazyme” – a digestive aid – due to a possible contamination with chloramphenicol, an antibiotic that may pose serious health risks to consumers. Chloramphenicol is associated with a rare risk of aplastic anemia, a serious blood disorder that can be fatal. This reaction is unpredictable and not related to a specific dose of chloramphenicol. Chloramphenicol is a prescription drug and should only be used under medical supervision in adults and children after careful consideration of the risks associated with it use. Other side effects that can be associated with chloramphenicol include allergic reactions in people who have sensitivity to the medication, and effects on the bone marrow leading to decreased blood cells. In addition, it should not be used in pregnant or lactating women.
Hazard description
Contamination
What to do
Consult your healthcare practitioner immediately if you have used this product. Report any adverse events using this product to Health Canada . Contact Metagenics Canada Inc. at 1-800-268-6200 to return the product.