Supermarkets and high streets pharmacies are recalling cold and flu capsules following a labelling error.
The capsules, which are produced by Wrafton Laboratories, said that the children aged 12 to 15 could take a maximum of up to 12 capsules within a 24 hour period.
Taking this amount meant that children were recommended 3.6 grams of paracetamol per day - which is over the maximum daily dose of three grams set by the UK’s medicine regulator.
This incorrect amount is usually the one recommended for adults aged 16 and over.
Experts say that the risk to children after taking that incorrect dosage is very low and there is no evidence of any harm.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said that the children of these ages should only be taking eight capsules instead.
Wilko, Spar, Waitrose, Aldi, Superdrug, Sainsbury’s, Lloyds, Morrisons, Boots and Tesco are also being asked to recall the affected batches.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer said: “I want to reassure people that, while this recall is aimed at retail level only, patient safety is at the centre of all our decision-making.
“If you or your child are aged 12 to 15 years, have recently used these capsules and have not experienced any side effects, there is no cause for concern. If you currently have one of these packets at home, please take note of the corrected dose in this age group and talk to your pharmacist if you are unsure of these changes.
“If you have any other questions, please speak to your healthcare professional and report any adverse reactions via the Yellow Card scheme."
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