An investigation is under way after a mistake means people might be taking incorrect medication which could be ‘dangerous’
Shoppers have been warned not to take some paracetamol tablets bought at Boots as it could be “dangerous”. An investigation has been launched after some packets of paracetamol contained blister packs marked as aspirin.
The pharmaceutical giant has urged people to check packs before taking them. The affected packages are Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets which contain 16 tablets.
The firm stated the product was “dangerous” because one batch – number 241005 – “contains the incorrect packaging.” It added: “The foiled blister insert will read Boots Aspirin 300mg dispersible tablets.
The supplier is currently conducting a full investigation, including on the tablet. Please do not take this product and instead return it to your local Boots store for a full refund. The affected item is:
Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets 16s:Item code 81-99-922;Batch 241005;Expiry date 12/2029
It adds: “If you have bought the Boots Paracetamol 500mg tablets 16s item code 81-99-922 as detailed above, please return the product to your local Boots store for a full refund with or without a receipt. For more information please contact Boots Customer Care Team on 0800 915 0004.”
It is unclear in the notice where the mistake has been made. It also does not say whether the tablets in the package are paracetamol or aspirin.
According to the NHS paracetamol is a common painkiller used to treat aches and pain. It can also be used to reduce a high temperature.
It is used in a wide range of cold and flu remedies. However it cannot be taken by everyone. People planning on taking the medication are advised to tell a doctor or pharmacist if they:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to paracetamol or any other medicine
- have liver or kidney problems
- regularly drink more than the maximum amount of alcohol recommended (14 units a week)
Those weighing less than 50kg (8 stone), are also advised to check with their doctor or pharmacist before taking it. They are warned they may need to take a lower dose.
Aspirin, meanwhile, is also an everyday painkiller for aches and pains such as headache, toothache and period pain. It can also be used to treat colds and flu-like symptoms, and to bring down a high temperature.
It is known as an acetylsalicylic acid. It also belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However it is not suitable for everyone with the NHS website warning the following people must inform their doctor or pharmacist before taking the drug if they:
- have ever had an allergy to aspirin or similar painkillers such as ibuprofen
- have ever had a stomach ulcer
- have recently had a stroke (although depending on the kind of stroke you’ve had, your doctor may recommend that you take low-dose aspirin to prevent another one)
- have high blood pressure (hypertension)
- have indigestion
- have asthma or lung disease
- have ever had a blood clotting problem
- have liver or kidney problems
- have gout – it can get worse for some people who take aspirin
- have heavy periods – they can get heavier with aspirin
- are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding