A Medication Is Being Recalled In Canada Due To Bacterial Contamination & Risk Of Infection

"Do not use the affected product."

A Government of Canada sign.

A Government of Canada sign.

Senior Writer

Health Canada has published a health product recall and public advisory over two lots of medication.

On February 19, the agency advised that the affected medication may contain the presence of bacterial contamination and possible risk of infection.

"Do not use the affected product," advises both the recall and advisory.

Information on the affected item:

  • APO-Mometasone nasal spray, 50 mcg/metered spray
  • Drug Identification Number: 02403587
  • Lot numbers: TX5343, TZ2586

"Apotex Inc. is recalling two lots of APO-Mometasone nasal spray due to possible bacterial contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc)," says the recall. "Bcc is a group of bacteria that poses a low medical risk to most healthy people; however, children, those with chronic lung diseases, people who are pregnant, seniors and those with a weakened immune system may be at a higher risk of illness."

The symptoms of Bcc range from nothing to serious infections that may result in sepsis and death, and the bacteria is often resistant to antibiotics.

"People experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms, such as fevers, or facial pain or pressure, should seek medical attention," says the recall.

As well, supply of the medication may be be compromised due to the recall, so the people are advised to contact their healthcare providers for alternative treatments.

This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.

  • Senior Writer

    Sarah Rohoman (she/her) was a Senior Writer with Narcity Media. She has worked at BuzzFeed Canada, Yahoo Canada, and CBC Radio in news, lifestyle, ecommerce, and social media. She has an MA in Journalism from Western University and a BA from McGill. She loves libraries, alpacas, and all things witchy.

Health Canada approves epinephrine nasal spray

Meet neffy: Health Canada approves epinephrine nasal spray for anaphylaxis

Sponsored Content

This respiratory nurse explains why Canadians shouldn't skip the pneumococcal vaccine

"Being well-informed empowers you to make the best decisions for your health."

Baby formula sold at Costco is being recalled due to a toxin that can cause food poisoning

The toxin is not destroyed by heat and can survive temperatures that would usually kill bacteria.

Gunman at Mexico pyramids kills Canadian tourist

Canadian tourist killed, another injured after gunman opens fire at Mexico pyramids

Alberta to do away with twice-a-year time change

Alberta's government says it will do away with twice-a-year time change

Poll suggests more Tory voters now want new leader

Poll suggests more Conservative voters now want to replace Poilievre as leader

Ontario to sell $29-million jet bought for Ford

Ontario to sell $29-million jet bought for Premier Doug Ford after backlash