Medicated Acne Gel Recall: Sold at Wal-Mart, Kroger and Dollar General

A recall has been issued for 1 ounce tubes of 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cream, which were sold as “Kroger Acne Gel”, “DG Maximum Strength Acne Medicated Gel” and “Equate: Medicated Acne Gel.” The products may be contaminated with a bacteria that could result in a potentially serious infection.

The medicated acne gel was manufactured by CSI USA, Inc. and sold throughout the United States at Wal-Mart, Krogers and Dollar General stores. It was sold between August 2007 and October 2008 at Wal-Mart stores under the Equate brand name, between July 2008 and October 2008 at Kroger stores under the Kroger brand name and between August 2008 and October 2008 at Dollar General stores under the DG brand name.

Samples of the 1 ounce tubes of 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Cream have tested positive for Burkholderia Cepacia bacteria, which is also known as Pseudomonas Cepacia.

According to the medicated acne gel recall notice posted on the FDA’s website, the risk of illness among healthy individuals using these products is very low. The manufacturer indicates that they have received no reports of adverse health events associated with the bacterial contamination of the acne gel.

However, for individuals with scrapes, rashes, cuts or other compromised skin conditions and for individuals with weakened or suppressed immune systems, the use of the recalled acne cream could pose a risk for infections.

The effects of a Burkholderia Cepacia infection may vary widely. While some individuals may exhibit no symptoms at all, others could experience serious respiratory infections. The bacteria has also been known to cause “foot-rot” among soldiers though it is more commonly associated with the development of serious health conditions in individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and those with chronic lung disease.

 
For individuals with existing health problems, Burkholderia Cepacia can attack the lungs and deterioration may be gradual or accelerated depending on the health of the person and on the type of Burkholderia Cepacia. In some cases, the bacteria could lead to pneumonia and death.
 
CSI USA, Inc. and the FDA are urging all consumers to stop using the recalled medicated acne gel. Refunds may be obtained from the place of purchase or directly from the manufacturer. For more information, visit www.acnemedrecall.com.