Pfizer recalls Gelusil batches

Pfizer India has recalled all unsold stocks of Gelusil MPS liquid, one of its largest selling brands, manufactured between May 1, 2002, and January 31, 2004.

These batches of Gelusil MPS were manufactured by a third-party contractor and were recalled after consumers complained of odour-related problems.

In a notice to wholesalers and stockists on February 11, 2004, a copy of which is available with Business Standard, Pfizer said: "We are recalling all available market stocks of all lots of Gelusil MPS liquid.... This recall is a voluntary action on our part towards our commitment to product quality. It is emphasised that this recall is not related to any concerns as to risk to health."

Further, the company advised its wholesalers and stockists to immediately stop sales of Gelusil MPS liquid manufactured between the relevant dates and to return all such stocks to the company.

Pfizer will, however, continue to market Gelusil tablets. The Gelusil range of products has an annual turnover of Rs 25 crore.

"We have withdrawn the product range till we get another third-party manufacturer," a company executive said. The product batch, manufactured by Greesha Laboratories, was bought by Parke-Davis India, which is now merged with Pfizer India. The company is recalling pack sizes of 50 ml, 170 ml, and 400 ml.

While company executives refused to divulge further details, they said they had received some consumer complaints after which the company conducted an internal evaluation of the product and found odour-related problems with the syrup.