Medical Products Laboratories Inc. is conducting a voluntary recall of more than 41,000 bottles of Walgreens-branded saline nasal spray following the discovery of bacterial contamination in the product that could pose health risks to consumers with weakened immune systems or compromised respiratory function.
The recall affects Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, sold in 1.5-ounce bottles and distributed through Walgreens pharmacy locations nationwide. The Food and Drug Administration classified the recall as Class II, a designation indicating that use of the product may cause temporary or medically reversible health problems, though the probability of serious adverse events or death is considered remote.
Laboratory testing revealed the presence of Pseudomonas lactis, a type of bacteria that can pose significant health risks to individuals with weakened immune systems or compromised respiratory systems, though it generally presents minimal danger to healthy individuals with normal immune function. Pseudomonas species bacteria can cause respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable populations including people with cystic fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or immunocompromising conditions.
The affected products were distributed to Walgreens stores nationwide and include two specific production lots: lot number 71409, which carries an expiration date of 28 February 2027, and lot number 71861, which expires on 31 August 2027. The lot number and expiration date appear printed on the product packaging, allowing consumers to determine whether bottles they have purchased are included in the recall.
The Philadelphia-based manufacturer initiated the recall on 12 November and has been notifying customers through written correspondence. The recall process remains ongoing as the company works to remove affected products from distribution channels and inform consumers who may have purchased the contaminated nasal spray.
Consumers who purchased the affected Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol should discontinue use immediately to avoid potential health risks and may return the product to their place of purchase for a refund or replacement. Individuals with questions about the recall or concerns about potential health effects from using the recalled product can contact Medical Products Laboratories Inc. at 9990 Global Road, Philadelphia, PA 19115.
The recalled product carries the National Drug Code 0363-3114-01, a unique identifier used to track pharmaceutical products throughout the distribution system.
Recalled Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol:
- Lot number 71409
- Expiration date: 28 February 2027
- Lot number 71861
- Expiration date: 31 August 2027
The recall highlights ongoing concerns about contamination risks in over-the-counter nasal products, which come into direct contact with sensitive mucous membranes and can introduce bacteria directly into the respiratory system if manufacturing or quality control processes fail to maintain sterility. Whilst saline nasal sprays are generally considered safe products used to relieve nasal congestion and dryness, bacterial contamination transforms them into potential vectors for infection, particularly dangerous for the vulnerable populations who may use these products whilst already experiencing respiratory illness.
Medical Products Laboratories Inc. has not disclosed how the bacterial contamination occurred, whether it resulted from manufacturing process failures, raw material contamination, or post-production contamination during packaging or storage. The company also has not indicated whether the contamination affected other products manufactured at the same facility or during the same time period.
Consumers concerned about potential exposure should monitor for symptoms of respiratory infection including persistent cough, increased nasal discharge, fever, or difficulty breathing, and should consult healthcare providers if such symptoms develop after using the recalled product, though most healthy individuals who used the contaminated spray will likely experience no adverse effects.
