Consumers and health professionals are advised that Link Healthcare, in consultation with the TGA, is recalling three batches of Akineton (biperiden hydrochloride) 2 mg tablets due to a potential for the medicine to prematurely degrade during its shelf life.
Akineton is used to treat a range of neurological disorders including parkinsonism, trigeminal neuralgia and night-time cramps.
The affected batch numbers are:
- 327028D
- 236698D
- 255238D
Link Healthcare identified the issue during routine testing of the affected batches.
Link Healthcare has advised that there have been no reports of adverse events associated with this issue in Australia as at 5 February 2015.
Information for consumers
Link Healthcare has written to pharmacies and is placing advertisements in print media with instructions for consumers about the recall.
If you, or a person you care for, is being treated with Akineton 2 mg tablets, check the batch number on the packaging.
If it is from any of the affected batches, you can return it to the pharmacy you purchased it from for a replacement product. Alternatively, contact Link Healthcare customer service on 1800 181 060 or email customerservice@linkhealthcare.com.au.
If you do not have access to an alternative product, you should consult a health professional before discontinuing use of the medicine.
If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, speak to your health professional.
Information for all health professionals
If you are treating a patient using Akineton 2 mg tablets, advise them of the issue.
Link Healthcare has written to pharmacies advising them of this issue and providing further information, including details of the recall process.
If you are responsible for stocks of Akineton 2 mg tablets, check the batch numbers on the product packaging to see if they are affected by this recall. Cease supplying any affected products and return them to Link Healthcare in accordance with the recall procedures.
If you have any questions or concerns about his issue contact Link Healthcare on 1800 181 060 or email medinfo@linkhealthcare.com.au.
Reporting problems
Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to report problems with medicines or vaccines. Your report will contribute to the TGA's monitoring of these products.
The TGA cannot give advice about an individual's medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medicine or vaccine.