Walgreens nasal spray recall affects 41,000 bottles nationwide after possible Pseudomonas lactis contamination
Deerfield, Illinois (Times Media Service) — A voluntary nationwide recall covers 41,328 bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol after tests found possible Pseudomonas lactis contamination. The FDA lists this as a Class II recall; consumers should stop using affected lots and seek refunds.
- Product: Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol, 1.5-ounce (45 mL), NDC 0363-3114-01 — lot #71409 (exp. 02/28/2027) and #71861 (exp. 08/31/2027). (Taunton, MA civic alert)
- Manufacturer: Medical Products Laboratories, Inc. (WBIW, Local12, Audacy)
- Scope: 41,328 bottles recalled and distributed nationwide. (WBIW, Local12, Audacy)
- Action: Stop using the product; return it to any Walgreens for a refund or dispose of it safely. (Taunton, MA civic alert, WBIW)
What happened and how the recall began
Officials report that tests detected Pseudomonas lactis in samples of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol produced by Medical Products Laboratories, Inc. The supplier initiated a voluntary recall under FDA guidance on Nov. 11–12, 2025 covering two lot numbers and NDC 0363-3114-01. (Taunton, MA civic alert; WBIW)
Official note: Detection of a bacterium in a non-sterile product intended for mucous membranes triggers regulatory action to protect consumers.
Why Pseudomonas lactis matters
Pseudomonas lactis is most commonly associated with raw milk and dairy environments, not nasal-care products. When such bacteria are found in a product applied to mucous membranes, the risk profile changes because the nose provides a direct route to the respiratory tract. For most healthy people exposure likely causes no serious illness, but people with chronic lung disease or weakened immune systems may be at greater risk. The FDA’s Class II designation indicates potential for temporary or reversible adverse effects. (WBIW, Local12, Taunton, MA civic alert)
Scope, distribution and recordkeeping questions
The recall covers 41,328 bottles distributed nationally, identified by lot numbers #71409 (exp. 02/28/2027) and #71861 (exp. 08/31/2027) and tracked by NDC 0363-3114-01. Local reporting indicates Medical Products Laboratories initiated the recall after detecting the contaminant during testing. Some coverage notes that Walgreens had not posted a formal corporate press release as of initial reports; consumers should rely on FDA notices and local health department alerts for verified updates. (WBIW, Local12, Audacy, Taunton, MA civic alert)
What consumers should do now
- Check your bottle: look for NDC 0363-3114-01 and lot #71409 or #71861. (Taunton, MA civic alert)
- Stop using the product immediately. (Taunton, MA civic alert, WBIW)
- Return affected bottles to any Walgreens for a refund, or dispose of them to prevent accidental use. (Taunton, MA civic alert)
- If you used the spray and develop symptoms — especially breathing difficulty, fever or worsening respiratory issues — contact your health care provider promptly. People with asthma, COPD, cystic fibrosis, cancer or other immunosuppressing conditions should be particularly cautious. (Taunton, MA civic alert, WBIW)
Investigative questions still unanswered
Reporting highlights several open questions investigators and public officials are likely to pursue:
- How did Pseudomonas lactis enter a non-sterile nasal spray production line supplying national retail? (WBIW, Local12)
- Were other lots or similar saline products tested and cleared, or could more recalls follow? (Local12, Audacy)
- What corrective actions will the manufacturer and distributor take to prevent future contamination? Public records and FDA notices may provide updates. (Taunton, MA civic alert)
Implications for Sonoma, California
Economic and retail impact: Sonoma residents who shop at Walgreens or keep a spare saline spray should check medicine cabinets now. Local Walgreens stores are part of a national chain and will accept returns for refunds; the recall is unlikely to disrupt overall nasal-care supplies but may cause short-term inconvenience. (recall notices)
Health and public safety: Sonoma County has an aging population and many residents with chronic respiratory disease. Clinics, long-term care and home-health providers should inspect supplies and remove any affected bottles immediately. Patients with weakened immune systems should consult their providers if exposed. (Taunton, MA civic alert)
Pharmacy practice and trust: Local pharmacists may need to reassure customers that a Class II recall typically signals low likelihood of severe harm while also advising immediate disposal or return of the listed lots. This event may prompt reviews of stocking and storage practices for non-sterile mucous-membrane products. (WBIW, Local12)
Ongoing monitoring and next steps
The recall remains active. Consumers should:
- Check bottles for NDC 0363-3114-01 and lot #71409 or #71861.
- Stop using any affected product and return it to Walgreens for a refund or dispose of it safely.
- Monitor the FDA and local public health announcements for updates and possible expansion of the recall. (Taunton, MA civic alert, WBIW, Local12, Audacy)
- Report any illness after using the product to your health care provider and local public health authorities.
Sources and reporting: Original notices and reporting referenced in this article include Taunton, MA civic alert, WBIW, Local12, and Audacy.
