Recall Alert: Pain Reliever Withdrawn Due to Benzene Contamination and Cancer Risk

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Insight Pharmaceuticals, a pharmaceutical company, has initiated a voluntary recall of a specific batch of pain reliever spray due to the identification of contamination with benzene.

On Friday, Insight Pharmaceuticals announced the recall of a single lot of Americaine 20 percent Benzocaine Topical Anesthetic Spray. 

This spray is designed to alleviate pain and itching associated with minor cuts, scrapes, burns, sunburns, as well as symptoms related to hemorrhoids and anorectic inflammation.

As per the recall statement, the contaminated batch exhibited a low level of benzene originating from the propellant responsible for dispensing the product from the can. 

Benzene is a known carcinogen that has the potential to induce various forms of cancer, including leukemia, blood cancer of the bone marrow, and blood disorders.

Insight Pharmaceuticals stated that, as of now, no reports of “serious adverse events related to this recall” have been received. The recall has been implemented as a precautionary measure.

CDC Finds Benzene in Indoor and Outdoor Air, Higher Levels Indoors

Recall-Alert-PainReliever-Withdrawn-Due-Contamination-And-Cancer-Risk
Insight Pharmaceuticals, a pharmaceutical company, has initiated a voluntary recall of a specific batch of pain reliever spray due to the identification of contamination with a carcinogenic substance.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that benzene is present in both indoor and outdoor air, with indoor levels typically being higher. 

Indoor sources of benzene include products such as glues, paints, furniture wax, and detergents. 

The CDC notes that low levels of benzene can also be found outdoors, originating from tobacco smoke, gas stations, car exhaust, and industrial emissions.

Individuals inhaling high concentrations of benzene may experience immediate symptoms, including drowsiness, dizziness, rapid or irregular heartbeat, headaches, tremors, confusion, unconsciousness, and, in extreme cases, death from very high exposure.

The CDC emphasizes that exhibiting these signs and symptoms does not necessarily indicate exposure to benzene.

Get a Refund: Take a Photo of the Can Bottom Before Disposal

Consumers have the option to obtain a refund by taking a photograph of the bottom of the affected can before disposal and providing it to the company. 

Insight Pharmaceuticals has shared its contact information in the recall notice, available on the Food and Drug Administration website.

The specific code for the contaminated lot is 1A16420, and the package size is 2 ounces. Insight Pharmaceuticals reassures that no other batches of the spray are subject to this recall and can be used safely as intended by consumers. 

Those who have purchased the spray from the affected lot are advised to discontinue use immediately and dispose of it.

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