Nyal herbal cold and flu products (recall)

Two herbal cold and flu medicines have been voluntarily recalled from the Australian market following reports of a number of allergic and anaphylactic reactions.

Following consultation with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Valeant Pharmaceuticals Australasia Pty Ltd is undertaking a consumer level recall of the following herbal medicines:

• Nyal Day & Night Cold & Flu Fighter tablets (AUST L 146264) and
• Nyal Cold & Flu Fighter tablets (AUST L 146263).

The recall applies to all product batches and expiry dates. These products have been supplied Australia-wide primarily through Coles, Woolworths, Big W and Priceline stores.

These products contain the herbs Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis), Sambucus nigra (Elderberry) and Salix alba (White willow). In addition, the night-time tablet contains the herb Valeriana officinalis (Valerian).

Although an investigation into the reasons for the reported adverse reaction to these herbal remedies has not yet identified a specific cause, consumers who have purchased these products are advised to stop using the products immediately and return them to the place of purchase.

If consumers have used one of these products recently and have concerns, they should consult their doctor.

Press advertising of the recall is expected to appear in a national daily newspapers commencing Saturday 20 December 2008.

Media contact: Kay McNiece, TGA, 0412 132 585