26 Apr 2010
Subsequent to the recall of pharmaceutical products manufactured by the licensed drug manufacturer Quality Pharmaceutical Laboratory Ltd early last week, the Department of Health's (DH) further investigations today (April 26) confirmed that seven more products were found to have failed the disintegration time test.
The manufacturer has initiated a recall of the products, namely Ampicin-125 Tablet (HK-24543), Ampicin-250 Tablet (HK-24542), Amoxycillin 250mg Tablet (HK-45567), Diphylline 200mg Tablet (HK-05025), Senoside 7.5mg Tablet (HK-49402), Qualiafin Tablet (HK-45961) and Simethacone 80mg Tablet (HK-35757).
A spokesman for the DH said that this was a quality defect, but could have therapeutic bearing.
It is known that the products have been sold to private doctors and pharmacies.
Ampicin-125 Tablet, Ampicin-250 Tablet and Amoxycillin 250mg Tablet are antibiotics used as antibacterial agents. They can only be sold in dispensaries on a doctor's prescription and under the supervision of a pharmacist.
The rest are over-the-counter medicines. Diphylline 200mg Tablet is used as bronchodilator whereas Senoside 7.5mg Tablet is used for the treatment of constipation. Qualiafin Tablet is used as pain killer while Simethacone 80mg Tablet is used for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.
Quality Pharmaceutical Laboratory Ltd. has voluntarily suspended all drug distribution to facilitate DH's ongoing investigation since last week. A hotline (2429 8412) has also been set up to handle public enquiries. DH will closely monitor the recall.
A DH spokesman reminded healthcare professionals and retailers to stop supplying the concerned products to their clients.
People who have used the products should consult their healthcare professionals if in doubt.