Australia recalls 13 immune supplements over anaphylaxis risks

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued an urgent recall for 13 immune system supplements containing the herb Andrographis paniculata following a sustained high number of anaphylaxis reports. The regulatory action follows a fatal case of anaphylactic reaction reported in June 2024.

Andrographis is commonly used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine to treat influenza and the common cold. While it has been subject to warning labels since 2019, the TGA has now removed it from the list of permissible ingredients for low-risk products to ensure stricter regulation. Factors that may increase the risk of severe allergic reactions include the use of anti-inflammatory medicines like ibuprofen, alcohol consumption, exercise after ingestion, and certain viral infections.

Recalled products include several from BioCeuticals, such as Armaforce and Clinical ImmuneForce, as well as Faulding Immune Combat, PM Lung Support II, Immune Support Echinacea Plus, Chemists’ Own Provance Immune Defence, 28 PLUS Immune Defence, and various Nourex Professional Immune Defence products. Consumers are advised not to use the affected supplements and to return them to the place of purchase.