AUDIENCE: Consumer, Family Practice, Pharmacy

ISSUE:FDA announced that it intends to remove certain unapproved prescription cough, cold, and allergy drug products from the U.S. market. Unapproved prescription cough, cold, and allergy drug products have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, and quality. People may be at greater risk when using these products than when using FDA-approved prescription drugs or drugs that are appropriately marketed over-the-counter (OTC).

Many health care providers are unaware of the unapproved status of drugs and have continued to unknowingly prescribe them because the drugs' labels do not disclose that they lack FDA approval.

BACKGROUND:Cough, cold, and allergy drug products are used to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold or upper respiratory allergies. These symptoms may include coughing, chest congestion, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Some cough, cold, and allergy products may be purchased over the counter (OTC), while others require a prescription. See link below for a list of the unapproved prescription cough, cold, and allergy drug products FDA intends to remove from the market.

RECOMMENDATION:Consumers who believe they are taking an unapproved prescription cough, cold, or allergy product should contact their health care provider to discuss alternatives.