Pain Medication Mix-Up Spurs Nationwide Naproxen Recall

A drug repackaging company is voluntarily recalling nearly 12,000 boxes of Assured brand naproxen sodium tablets due to a packaging mix-up that left some cartons containing bottles of ibuprofen.

On October 20, 2014, Contract Packaging Resources disclosed that the 11,640 boxes of recalled naproxen products were distributed nationwide to Dollar Tree and sold through its retail stores and website. The affected products are 15-count boxes of Assured naproxen sodium 220 mg tablets (Lot #FH4102A) [SKU #122368/UPC #639277223685] that erroneously contain bottles of ibuprofen 200 mg softgels.

The North Carolina-based drug repackaging company advised consumers who intentionally avoid using ibuprofen due to allergy or other medical conditions that they may have inadvertently purchased ibuprofen 200 mg softgels, believing it was naproxen sodium 220 mg tablets. The company noted that allergic reactions can range from mild irritation or hives to serious reactions, such as anaphylaxes that may be life threatening. However, it has not yet received any reports of adverse events related to the recall.

Contract Packaging Resources is notifying its distributors and customers directly and arranging for replacement of all recalled drug products. Consumers can return the recalled products to the place of purchase and should contact their health care provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using the product.