Toy and Drug Recalls

Yesterday, several featured news headlines related to various toys that are being recalled in the United States appeared across the web. The pharmaceutical industry could learn a lot about public responsibility if they would simply adopt some of the practices seen in these toy recall announcements.

One of the first headlines read “Choking Hazard Prompts Recall of 290,000 Toys.” According to the article, a Hong Kong toy manufacturer is recalling about 290,000 toy vehicles as a result of finding a choking hazard risk in young children. Here’s an important statement from the article, “although no such reports have been received by the toy manufacturer, the recall was issued as a preventive measure.”

Can you imagine a drug manufacturer pulling a child medication off the market because they found there may be a possible risk related to the use of the product although none had been reported?

The toy recall article goes on to describe which toys pose a risk, what they look like, what consumers should do with them, and how they can get a refund. The article stated that “consumers should take these toy vehicles away from children immediately.”

Just imagine a drug manufacturer adopting this policy. “We believe our product may put some children at risk, please dispose of all XYZ medication immediately, contact your local distributor for a full refund, and call us toll-free if you have any questions.”

The next toy article was an announcement that about 3.8 million toys are being recalled due again to a potential choking hazard in children. According to the article, there was a report that a child choked on a part from the toy but that a parent removed the part before serious injury occurred.

One reported incident, nearly 4 million units recalled. Again, a complete description of the toy is given, information on discarding the toy is given, and a toll-free number is given for further questions.

I’d like to see the drug companies adopt a similar policy. But then, would there be any drugs left for children to take?

The toy recall links:
Choking Hazard Prompts Recall of 290,000 Toys
Chick-fil-A recalls suction-cup toy