Company Recalls Acne Gels Due to Bacteria Threat

CSI USA Inc. has issued a voluntary national recall of three acne products containing benzoyl peroxide due to a bacteria threat. The company recalled 1 ounce (28 g) tubes of DG Maximum Strength Acne Medicated Gel, sold at Dollar General; Kroger Acne Gel 10% Benzoyl Peroxide Acne Medication, sold at Kroger; and Equate: Medicated Acne Gel, sold at Wal-Mart.

The 10% benzoyl peroxide products are being recalled because samples of the products were found to contain bacteria identified as Burkholderia cepacia, formerly known as Pseudomonas cepacia. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, B. cepacia poses little medical risk to healthy people but those with weak immune systems or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis, may be more susceptible to infections. B cepacia is a known cause of infections in hospitalized patients. The group finds that those with respiratory infections such as those with cystic fibrosis, run the risk of developing respiratory infections.

After conducting a thorough assessment, the company concluded that the risk of illness in healthy individuals following use of this product is very low. However, there could be an increased health risk of infections for individuals with cuts, scrapes, rashes or other compromised skin conditions. Individuals with weakened or suppressed immune systems are also at an increased risk of infection.

No consumer adverse health events related to this issue have been reported. No other acne medications sold by Dollar General, Kroger or Wal-Mart are affected by this recall.

Consumers are advised to discontinue use of the product and can obtain a full refund by mailing the tube, or proof of purchase, to CSI USA Inc. Additional information can be found at the product Web site, www.acnemedrecall.com.