Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has confirmed the recall of popular antibiotic Zithromax from UAE pharmacy shelves, citing “a manufacturing-related matter” as the cause.
“Pfizer is recalling Zithromax 250mg capsules due to a manufacturing-related matter, which does not impact product quality or safety,” a Pfizer spokesperson told Arabian Business.
“Pfizer has determined the root cause and is working to implement appropriate corrective and preventive actions.”
The company emphasised patient concerns are being addressed. “We fully realise the importance of this medicine for patients and are working as quickly as possible to resolve the matter. Patients currently taking the product should consult with their healthcare provider about alternative treatment options.”
The recall, which reportedly occurred approximately 2-3 weeks ago, has left pharmacies across the UAE without stock of the widely prescribed medication, according to multiple pharmacy sources contacted by Arabian Business.
Zithromax, which contains azithromycin, is commonly prescribed to treat various bacterial infections, including respiratory infections, skin infections, ear infections, and sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia. The medication is also used to prevent infections caused by Mycobacterium Avium-intracellulare Complex (MAC) in certain patients.
Pharmacies confirm recall
Arabian Business contacted several pharmacies across Dubai to confirm the recall. Staff at multiple locations verified that the medication had been pulled from shelves.
“The company took back all stock, it has not come back into the market yet. They didn’t disclose the reason why. It was recalled 2-3 weeks ago,” said a pharmacist at MedX Pharmacy’s Al Barsha branch.
A representative at another MedX branch in Dubai provided further insight. “It was recalled almost a month ago. I guess it was a bad batch. It hasn’t caused much issues in the market as there are alternative brands of the same type of antibiotic available.”
Similarly, a staff member at Aster Pharmacy’s Pinnacle Tower branch confirmed, “They recalled them a long time ago. We haven’t been receiving anything. There are different brands of antibiotics people are using.”
The medication works by stopping the growth of bacteria that cause infections and is not effective against viral infections such as the common cold or flu.
Health authorities typically issue recalls of pharmaceutical products when issues related to safety, efficacy, or quality control are identified. These can range from manufacturing inconsistencies to contamination or labelling errors.
Pfizer did not specify when the medication would return to UAE pharmacy shelves but indicated they are working to resolve the issue quickly.
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