Children's Tylenol recall: Are generics better?
This weekend's huge recall of 40 over the counter infant and children's liquid medicines from a division of Johnsons & Johnsons has caused a flurry of panic among parents.
The company announced the recall, which affects Children's Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl and other products -- see the full list here -- because the products didn't meet quality standards.
For instance, some of the medicines have higher than normal quantities of the active ingredient, while others didn't meet testing standards. The company and the FDA say that the possibility for serious medical problems is "remote," but if you bought the recalled products, don't use them just in case, they warn.
It's the second Tylenol recall in recent months. Back in December, the maker of Tylenol Arthritis Pain medicine recalled that product because a moldy smell triggered nausea, dizziness and stomach pain.
With all the concern over the popular name brand, are people switching to generics? That's the question this NYT story asks, quoting wary parents and industry watchers who say the company's going to have to go the extra mile to regain consumers' trust.
Of course, generics are also cheaper, and for penny-pinchers, they've always been a good option. Besides, when it comes to the formulations, the active ingredients in generic drugs and name brands are the same, says the FDA.
What do you think? Would you rather buy generics?
For more info on the recall, and to get refund see McNeil's product recall site for contacts and instructions.
Comments
I always buy generic medicines if they're available. It saves a lot of money, and with all these recalls, especially on children's medicines, I'll stick with what's had the better track record. I like to save myself money and worry.
Posted by: Kris | May 3, 2010 12:47 PM
I agree. Generic is the same as the name brand. The only difference is, generics don't have the recall history, as the name brand meds do. When I give my child the generic version of Motrin, there is no worry. Which is why I quit using Children's Tylenol and Children's Motrin. Generic is cheaper and just the same, minus the recalls!
Posted by: Mom | May 5, 2010 4:05 PM
This recall makes me less likely to buy generics. It shows that brand name companies like J&J are responsible enough to recall medicines that may or may not have problems. When was the last time a major generic brand was recalled? If contamination happens for brand name drugs, you can bet it happens for generics. We just don't have as many safeguards and inspections for generic drug makers.
Posted by: Charlie | May 7, 2010 9:55 AM