Dietary Supplement Recall

Multi-Mex Distributor has recalled dietary supplements that may be labeled as antibiotic drugs. The recall was initiated after an US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)  inspection revealed the product packaging mimics antibiotics readily available in Mexico and possibly familiar to Hispanic consumers.  Consumers may be confused in thinking that the dietary supplements are actually antibiotics.

The products were distributed in nine states, including California, to the retail store and distributors.

To see the full list of recalled products, please click here.

Warnings of these dietary supplements made news in Texas on Thursday, April 28th, when four children were taken to a medical center due to worsening illnesses after being given dietary supplements the parents may have believed were antibiotics and which were packaged to resemble antibiotics that are readily available as over the counter drugs in Mexico. Giving the dietary supplement may have delayed legitimate medical treatment. Although the labels were printed in English and Spanish, the packaging appears to be an intentional marketing ploy to mimic antibiotics and directed at Hispanic buyers. It was determined the children had been given a dietary supplement, Amoxilina, which the parents may have believed was the antibiotic Amoxicillin.

Consumers who have used the products and have concerns should contact their healthcare provider.

Consumers who have purchased any of the recalled products are urged to discontinue their use immediatly.  Consumers should discard the products or return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Retail stores and distributors are to return the products to Multi-Mex, 4744-C North Royal Atlanta Drive, Tucker, GA. 30084.  Consumers with questions may call at 678-226-1758 (Monday-Friday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm).

The FDA and the Monterey County Health Department also encourage consumers to consult with their health care professional before taking any dietary supplements.

All consumers should be aware of the following signs of health fraud:

• Promises of an “easy” fix for problems like excess weight, hair loss, or impotency.
• Claims such as “scientific breakthrough,” “miraculous cure,” “secret ingredient,” and “ancient remedy.
• Impressive-sounding terms, such as “hunger stimulation point” and “thermogenesis” for a weight loss product.
• Claims that the product is safe because it is “natural.”
• Undocumented case histories or personal testimonials by consumers or doctors claiming amazing results.
• Promises of no-risk, money-back guarantees.
• Claims that the product is a replacement for a prescription medication

Any adverse events that may be related to the use of recalled products should be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm], by phone [1-800-FDA-1088], or by returning the postage paid FDA form 3500 [which may be downloaded from: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm] by mail [to MedWatch, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787] or fax [1-800-FDA- 0178].