27-05-2016, 12:49 PM
In recent years, the number of major drug recalls within the Pharmaceutical industry has skyrocketed from 426 in 2008 to 1,742 in 2009 according to CNNMoney.1 Even more alarming is the increase in drug recalls due to microbial contamination, which are among the most dangerous as they can result in serious illness or death.
A recent example is the January 2011 recall of Alcohol Prep Pads, Alcohol Swabs and Alcohol Swabsticks, manufactured by the Triad Group.2 This recall was initiated due to potential contamination of Bacillus cereus. Another pharmaceutical product that was recently recalled due to microbial contamination included two brands of antiseptic-antiplaque mouthwash that were contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia. This recall took place in November 2010, and was issued by the Health Sciences Authority in Singapore.3
Undoubtedly, a company suffers enormous damage when a drug product is recalled. The direct hit will include loss of product sales, decreased customer confidence, damage to the brand and company name, and in many cases, legal proceedings. The overall costs associated with a major drug recall are almost immeasurable.
Quality Control is an essential function of the Pharmaceutical industry. Drug manufacturers must thoroughly test materials, processes, equipment, techniques, environments and personnel in order to ensure their final products are consistent, safe, effective and predictable.
A recent example is the January 2011 recall of Alcohol Prep Pads, Alcohol Swabs and Alcohol Swabsticks, manufactured by the Triad Group.2 This recall was initiated due to potential contamination of Bacillus cereus. Another pharmaceutical product that was recently recalled due to microbial contamination included two brands of antiseptic-antiplaque mouthwash that were contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia. This recall took place in November 2010, and was issued by the Health Sciences Authority in Singapore.3
Undoubtedly, a company suffers enormous damage when a drug product is recalled. The direct hit will include loss of product sales, decreased customer confidence, damage to the brand and company name, and in many cases, legal proceedings. The overall costs associated with a major drug recall are almost immeasurable.
Quality Control is an essential function of the Pharmaceutical industry. Drug manufacturers must thoroughly test materials, processes, equipment, techniques, environments and personnel in order to ensure their final products are consistent, safe, effective and predictable.
