Pfizer suspends sale of three antibiotics in India over technical issues

Investigating matter with contract manufacturer Astral Steritech, says pharma firm

US pharmaceutical major Pfizer has voluntarily suspended selling three antibiotics in India after "technical issues" at its contract manufacturing site.

The exact issue with Magnex, Magnamycin, and Zosyn at the manufacturing site is not known, but trade sources said it is unlikely to be a major problem as the company has not issued a recall.

Magnex is used to treat gynaecological and abdominal infections and Magnamycin for bacterial infections of the respiratory tract, pelvic inflammatory disease and other issues. Zosyn is used for stomach, urinary tract, and skin infections.

Pfizer said that it places utmost emphasis on patient safety and product quality. “Out of an abundance of caution, and following a request by our local contract manufacturer, Pfizer has currently placed a voluntary stop on further sale and use of its products Magnex, Magnamycin and Zosyn in India as a result of certain technical issues brought to our attention by the contract manufacturing site in India,” said a company spokesperson.

The manufacturer is investigating the matter and Pfizer will take any further action if required, the company said.

Rajiv Singhal, general secretary of the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), said the company on May 16 issued a circular about deviations observed at its local contract manufacturing facility, Astral Steritech, regarding the three products.

“In the light of the circular we have asked all retailers, stockists, hospital distributors etc to temporarily suspend sales and distribution of the three antibiotics mentioned,” Singhal said.

Abbott India recalled in April one batch of its popular thyroid disorder drug Thyronorm due to a labeling error about dosage, saying there was no quality issue. The mislabeled batch was invoiced in Madhya Pradesh and Telangana.