FDA Recall: Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol Pulled for Possible Contamination
Hold onto your hats, because we need to talk about a major recall. Over 41,000 bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol have been pulled from shelves due to a contamination risk. That’s right, a product meant to help you breathe easier might be packing some unwanted bacterial baggage. This isn’t just a simple mix-up, it’s Class II, which means it could cause some temporary or reversible health issues. We’re going to dive into what this is all about, why xylitol is even in your nasal spray, who’s at risk, and what you should do if you have one of these bottles lurking in your medicine cabinet.
Recall Overview: What’s the Tea?
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Walgreens has recalled a specific product, the 1.5-ounce (45mL) bottle of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol. Why? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) flagged it for potential contamination with a bacterium called Pseudomonas lactis, which is usually found chilling in raw milk and can cause spoilage. Nobody wants that in their nose.
This affects 41,328 bottles sold at Walgreens stores across the country. Check your bottles for these specific lot numbers and expiration dates:
- Lot No. 71409, Expires: 2/28/2027
- Lot No. 71861, Expires: 8/31/2027
A Walgreens spokesperson stated this recall was done “out of an abundance of caution,” emphasizing that customer safety is their top priority. While the risk of serious health problems is considered remote, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Xylitol Explained: Not Just a Sweet Treat
So, you’re probably wondering, “What is this xylitol stuff, and why is it in my nasal spray?” Xylitol is a sugar alcohol found naturally in fruits and vegetables. It’s about as sweet as regular sugar but has half the calories, making it a popular sugar substitute in things like gum, candy, and even toothpaste. You’ll often see it touted for preventing cavities.
In a spray, xylitol isn’t there for taste. It helps moisturize the nasal passages and some studies suggest it can fight off bacteria that cause ear infections and other issues. It’s generally considered safe when used in a nasal rinse. However, consuming too much xylitol can lead to digestive troubles like gas and bloating. And a word to the wise, keep it far, far away from your pets, as it is highly toxic to dogs.
Who is Affected by the Nasal Spray Recall?
This recall is for anyone who purchased the specific Walgreens nasal spray with the lot numbers mentioned above. While anyone can be affected, those with compromised immune systems, young children, and pregnant individuals should be particularly cautious. A Class II recall means there’s a possibility of temporary or medically reversible health consequences, so if you fall into a higher-risk group, it’s especially important to take this seriously.
What to do if You Have an Affected Product
If you have one of the recalled bottles, the instructions are simple: stop using it immediately. Don’t try to “use it up” or hope for the best.
You have two options:
- Throw it away.
- Return it to any Walgreens store for a full refund.
If you’ve used the product and are feeling unwell or experiencing any unusual symptoms, it’s time to contact your doctor. Don’t hesitate to mention that you used a recalled product. If you have urgent questions, you can always contact Poison Control for expert advice.
Stay Safe and Check Your Stash
This Walgreens nasal spray recall is a powerful reminder to always be aware of the products you use. It pays to check lot numbers and stay informed about recalls that could affect your health. Keep an eye on what’s in your medicine cabinet, because your well-being is the most valuable thing you own. Stay safe out there!
