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29 March 2024

GSK to recall antibiotic containing plastics

Published
By Reuters

Hong Kong has ordered GlaxoSmithKline Plc (GSK) to recall an antibiotic for treating bacterial infections because the drug was found to contain detectable levels of plasticisers.     

The levels were considered "unlikely to cause acute harmful effects" if the antibiotics were taken according to the recommended dosage, the Department of Health said in a statement.  

Even so, it said it would seek advice on possible legal actions against GSK.   

The government said diisodecyl phthalate (DIDP), di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and diisononyl phthalate (DINP) were detected in samples of GSK's Augmentin 375 mg tablets.   

The government conducted enhanced surveillance following the recall in June of GSK's Augmentin powder for syrup that was contaminated with a cancer-causing plastic additive.     

Last month, Hong Kong ordered GlaxoSmithKline to recall a paediatric antibiotic manufactured in France because of the presence of a plasticiser in the product, raising safety and quality concerns.