Over 2,300 Bottles of Popular Allergy Medicine Recalled in the U.S. Due to Risk of Child Poisoning

In a recent safety measure, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced the recall of approximately 2,300 bottles of Benadryl Liquid Elixir due to packaging that fails to meet child-resistant safety standards, posing a poisoning risk to children.

Product Details

The affected product is the 100-milliliter bottle of Benadryl Liquid Elixir, identified with lot code X003VRIGUL. It was sold exclusively on Amazon between July 2023 and October 2024, priced between $16 and $19. The packaging consists of a round, dark plastic bottle with a pink and white label, and the brand name “Benadryl” in blue on the front. The lot code is printed on the bottom of the packaging.

Reason for the Recall

Under the Poison Prevention Packaging Act, medications containing certain active ingredients—such as diphenhydramine, found in Benadryl—must be packaged in child-resistant containers. The recalled bottles lack such safety features, making it easier for children to open them and potentially ingest the contents, leading to a high risk of poisoning.

Health Risks from Diphenhydramine Poisoning

Diphenhydramine is a common antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms. However, an overdose in children can lead to serious side effects such as:

• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Low blood pressure
• Rapid heart rate
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

These symptoms require immediate medical attention to avoid life-threatening complications.

Consumer Recommendations

If you have one of the affected Benadryl Liquid Elixir bottles, authorities recommend the following:

1. Safe storage: Keep the medication out of children’s sight and reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

2. Contact the manufacturer: Reach out to Arsell Inc. to request a full refund. You’ll need to provide your Amazon order number and a photo showing the bottle has been disposed of properly.

Importance of Child-Resistant Packaging

This incident highlights the importance of child-resistant packaging in medications. Parents and caregivers should always ensure that potentially dangerous products are stored safely and equipped with secure closures to prevent children from gaining access.

Conclusion

The recall of these Benadryl bottles reinforces the need for ongoing vigilance in the pharmaceutical industry. Consumers must stay informed about packaging safety and take necessary precautions to protect the health and well-being of children in the home.