An industry expert is calling for a rethink on pharmaceutical labels.
Writing for Fiercepharmamanufacturing.com, George Miller cited the recent controversy of new dosage concentration liquid acetaminophen, intended for infants.
The new over-the-counter drug is intended to minimise the chance of accidental overdose by decreasing the concentration so that it is the same as that of the products intended for older children – with just a change in dosage.
However, Mr Miller said that the "multiform communication blitz" from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) which accompanied that change means that the traditional form of communication with consumers – via printed labels – is not working.
"The FDA communication blitz proves that drug labels on OTC products are ineffective, and hanging in the balance is the safety of infants vulnerable to liquid acetaminophen overdoses," he explained
"It's time to fix the labels."
Scientists have also called for clearer labelling on caffeinated energy drinks in recent days, amid health concerns.
Denny Bros Ltd, 20 January 2012
