Antipsychotic Risperdal Recalled for Odor

Johnson& Johnson have recalled the antipsychotic drug Risperdal and generic risperidone antipsychotic medication due to a musty odor. The same odor has led to the recall of other J&J products in the past several months. The recall affects one lot shipped between Aug. 27, 2010, and Feb. 15, 2011.

The odor can reportedly be attributed to TBA, a breakdown by-product of a chemical preservative used in wooden storage pallets. Even tiny traces of TBA give off a powerful odor. Although TBA is not toxic, the odor has made some patients sick to their stomachs.

J&J is recalling some 16,000 bottles of brand-name Risperdal (3 milligram tablets) and some 24,000 bottles of its generic risperidone (2 milligram tablets). The generic version is marketed by Patriot Pharmaceuticals, a wholly owned subsidiary of J&J.

Patients taking Risperdal or the generic version should not stop taking the medication, but should consult their doctor. Anyone noticing an unusual odor should return the bottles to their local pharmacist.

Other drugs recalled due to the chemical include Topamax, Prezista, and Tylenol 8-Hour Extended Release Caplets.

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