The UK medicines watchdog has recalled over 100 batches of a range of generic medicines.

The class two drug alert from the MHRA applies to 111 batches of the following drugs from generics manufacturer Karib Kemi Pharm:

·          Amoxicillin, 250mg and 500mg caps

·          Atenolol 50mg and 100mg tabs

·          Ciproflaxin 250mg and 500mg tabs

·          Fluoxetine 20mg caps

·          Paracetamol 500mg tabs

·          Phenoxymethylpenicillin potassium 250mg tabs

·          Ranitidine 75mg, 150mg and 300mg tabs

Some of the affected ciproflaxin tablet batches are also in Sandoz livery.

Pharmacists should quarantine and return for credit any unexpired stock of the affected batches. Stock return and credit enquiries should be directed to Karib Kemi Pharm on 07732 166641 or 07732 166891.

The recall was a “precautionary” measure, the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) said, after the medicines were “exposed to unsatisfactory conditions during shipment at sea”.

“There is no specific evidence to suggest that the medicines are not safe for patient use,” the medicines watchdog added. Further tests were being carried out to establish the risks.

The recall of such a “considerable amount of stock” could have “a severe effect on current supplies”, warned generics expert Bharat Shah. In particular, the Sigma Pharmaceuticals managing director said, amoxicillin and fluoxetine were already in short supply.