Bayer has voluntarily recalled approximately 786,100 bottles of Travel Size Afrin Original Nasal Spray due to the absence of child-resistant packaging, which poses a risk of poisoning if the contents are swallowed by children. The recall affects 6 mL bottles sold nationwide at convenience stores and travel hubs, including airports, from September 2024 to April 2026, priced between $7 and $9.
Details of the Recall
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) stated that the nasal spray's packaging is not child-resistant and lacks the required labeling, creating a risk of serious injury or illness from poisoning if young children ingest the product. The affected product contains the nasal decongestant imidazoline, which, according to the Poison Prevention Packaging Act, must be protected by child-safe packaging to prevent accidental poisoning. If swallowed, imidazoline can lead to slowed brain activity, trouble breathing, and heart distress, and is especially toxic to children even in small doses.
Affected Lot Numbers and Identification
The recalled bottles bear lot numbers 230361, 240822, 241198, 250066, 250152, 250646, and 250831. They are labeled as "Afrin Original Nasal Spray" with "1/5 FL OZ (6 mL)" on the front. No injuries or adverse effects related to the recall have been reported to date.
Consumer Action Required
Bayer advises customers to immediately secure the recalled bottles out of sight and reach of children and to visit the brand's website to request a refund. Consumers will need to take and submit a photo of the product before disposing of it. For questions, Bayer can be contacted at 800-317-2165 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET, or via an online recall refund webform.
Health Risks of Imidazoline
Imidazoline is a powerful nasal decongestant that constricts blood vessels and is also used in eye drops like Visine and Clear Eyes. While safe when used topically or in nasal passages, swallowing it can rapidly lead to toxicity, especially in children. Signs of poisoning include drowsiness, extreme lethargy, low muscle tone, decreased breathing rate, blue lips or fingers, slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, and tremors.
Recent Similar Recalls
This recall follows the March recall of 27,400 bottles of Tomum Hair Regrowth Treatment with Minoxidil due to lack of child-safe packaging, and the recall of over 350,000 bottles of iron-containing dietary supplements last month for the same reason. No injuries or illnesses were reported in those recalls either.
