Rabipur - potential problem packaging of syringes
(Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics GmbH) Potential problem with packaging of the syringes supplied with specific batches of Rabipur – class 4 caution in use. (EL (12)A/13)
21 March 2012
Class 4 medicines defect information
Caution in use
Distribute to pharmacy level
MDR 46-02/12
Product details
Novartis Vaccines and Diagnostics GmbH
Rabipur
Rabies vaccine, inactivated
PL 16033/0008
Alert details
- Batch number: 490011C
- Expiry date: 30 Apr 2015
- Pack size: 1 Dose
- First distributed: 12 Oct 2011
- Batch number: 493011A
- Expiry date: 31 May 2015
- Pack size: 1 Dose
- First distributed: 22 Dec 2011
Novartis Vaccines has informed us that there is a potential problem with the packaging of the syringes supplied with the above batches. The outer packaging of some of the individually packed syringes associated with a different batch of Rabipur, but which used the same syringe batch, was found to be discoloured and there was mould present in some cases. No samples from the above listed batches have been found to be affected.
The risk of any syringes provided with batches 490011C and 493011A being affected is considered by the company to be very low. As a precaution, however, healthcare professionals are requested to inspect the outer packaging of these syringes for signs of a yellow discolouration or mould. If no issues are identified by the inspection, the syringes may be used as normal. If discolouration or mould is identified, the affected syringes should be discarded and replaced with commercially available syringes with the same specification, ie a 2ml luer cone with 0.6x30mm needle. If this needle is not available, the product can be injected using a needle of a size to suit the patient.
A new batch of unaffected Rabipur is expected to be available for distribution during week commencing 09 April 2012. If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact Novartis Vaccines Customer Services on 08457 451500.
The quality of the vaccine and the diluent is not affected by this issue and the risk of an adverse reaction occurring in an individual who has received Rabipur from a potentially affected syringe is considered by the company to be very low. The company also considers the probability of decreased effectiveness of the vaccine as a result of this issue to be low, therefore re-vaccination of individuals previously vaccinated with Rabipur from the batches mentioned above is not being recommended.
For medical information enquiries, please contact Novartis Vaccines on 01748 828816.
Recipients of this drug alert should bring it to the attention of relevant contacts by copy of this letter. Primary care trusts are asked to forward this to general practitioners, community pharmacists and relevant clinics.
MHRA distribution
Further recipients by cascade:
Regional contacts for NHS trusts and provider units
Chief pharmacists: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
Prison Health Policy Unit (DH)
Chief pharmacists: Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark, Isle of Man, Gibraltar
Special Hospitals
Healthcare Commission for distribution to Independent Health Care Establishments
Primary care trusts (England)