Warning

2006-39
May 30, 2006
For immediate release

Health Canada warns consumers not to use triaminic vapour patch due to potential health risks

OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers not to use Triaminic Vapour Patch due to the serious adverse health effects that could result if the product is accidentally ingested by children.

Triaminic Vapour Patch contains camphor, eucalyptus oil and menthol. The reported side-effects from swallowing products containing camphor or eucalyptus oils vary from minor symptoms such as burning sensation in the mouth, headache, nausea and vomiting to more severe and life-threatening reactions such as seizures.

Health Canada is aware of one adverse reaction associated with the use of Triaminic Vapour Patch. The adverse reaction involved a child who had a seizure after chewing on the patch.

Triaminic Vapour Patch is advertised as a cough suppressant for children two years of age and older. The directions on the label indicate that the patch is to be applied to the throat or chest to allow the vapours to reach the nose and mouth. Once applied, the patch would be within close reach for a child to remove and ingest. An additional risk is the product's cherry scent, which could also lead a child to chew or swallow the patch.

The product is sold over the counter as a natural health product at pharmacies and retail outlets in Canada. A recall of the product will be initiated by the distributor. Consumers should discontinue use of this product and return it to the point of purchase.

Consumers who have used the product and have concerns about their health should contact their physicians or health care practitioner.

Consumers requiring more information about this advisory can contact Health Canada's public enquiries line at (613) 957-2991, or toll free at 1-866-225-0709.

To report a suspected adverse reaction with these or any other health product, please contact the Canadian Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Program (CADRMP) of Health Canada by one of the following methods:

Telephone: 866-234-2345
Facsimile: 866-678-6789

Products Directorate
Health Protection Building, Tunney's Pasture, AL 0701C
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K9
Email: cadrmp@hc-sc.gc.ca

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Media Inquiries:
Nathalie Lalonde
Health Canada
(613) 957-1803

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991
1-866 225-0709