Health authorities withdraw two antibiotic types from sale

TWO types of antibiotics have been taken off sale in Spain due to higher than recommended levels of histamine – a key main ingredient in fighting bacteria – being detected in them.

Various types of pills and injectible versions of Genta Gobens, and intravenous solutions of Gentamycin Braun – the latter only used in hospitals – have been withdrawn.

The main ingredient is manufactured by Fujian Fukang Pharmaceutical Company Limited, based in China, whilst Genta Gobens is retailed in Spain by the laboratory Normon and Gentamycin by Braun Medical.

Gentamycin is used to combat serious infections such as septicaemia, including those affecting the central nervous sytem, the urinary tract, gastro-intestinal infections, subcutaneous skin infections and burns, and severe virus types affecting the respiratory tract and bones.

Histamine is a chemical mediator which produces allergic reaction symptoms.