Monday, May 09, 2011

Logo of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ...Image via WikipediaThe makers of cold and fever medications that contain the painkiller acetaminophen said Wednesday night that they will discontinue infant-drops versions of the products to avoid confusion that might lead to overdoses, the Associated Press reported.


Once production ends, later this year, the companies will sell just one formula for all children under the age of 12. Companies such as Johnson & Johnson currently sell infant versions of the drugs (80 milligrams) that contain half the amount of acetaminophen found in regular children's formulas, the news service said.
Acetaminophen is a widely used drug found in a variety of products that helps to ease pain and reduce fever.


The manufacturers' announcement preceded a U.S. Food and Drug Administration meeting scheduled for later this month, at which time agency advisers will consider whether clearer instructions and safety labeling are needed for products containing acetaminophen that are marketed for children younger than 2 years of age, the news service said.

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