BARBADOS – The sale and distribution of the drug tegaserod branded as Zelmac in Barbados or Zelnorm in the United States market has been suspended by its manufacturers Novartis Farmaceutica, S.A.
The Ministry of Health is therefore informing the public that the manufacturer agreed to suspend the sale and distribution of Zelmac 6mg. tablets on the Barbados market, with immediate effect.
This decision was taken based on global reports of increased risks of serious cardiovascular adverse events including myocardial infarction (heart attack) and angina as well as strokes in patients, taking Zelmac.
The incidence of these adverse events was higher in patients taking tegaserod than those taking placebo.
Patients are advised to immediately discontinue the use of this drug and return unused tablets to their pharmacy.
They are further urged to consult with their doctor to review treatment options.
Zelmac is used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Meanwhile, the Health Ministry is also reminding members of the public of the voluntary consumer recall of Listerine Agent Cool Blue plaque-detecting rinse products – Glacier Mint and Bubble Blast flavors, from both retailers and consumers.
This follows a determination that the preservation system in the product was not adequate against some micro-organisms.
The recall does not in any way affect the mother brand Listerine but is specific only to Agent Cool Blue variants referred to above.
Retailers and consumers are therefore advised to immediately discontinue the use of this product and return it to Brydens Distribution, Barbarees Hill, St. Michael.
