FDA: Stop Using Eco-Med Ultrasound Gels, Lotions

Health care providers and facilities should immediately stop using and discard all ultrasound gels and lotions manufactured by Eco-Med Pharmaceutical Inc. due to a risk for bacterial contamination, according to a letter to health care providers published online Aug. 18 by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Health care providers, health care facility risk managers, and procurement staff should immediately stop using and discard all ultrasound gels and lotions manufactured by Eco-Med Pharmaceutical Inc. These products are distributed under various product names, including MediChoice Ultrasound Gel distributed by both Owens & Minor and Mac Medical Supply Co. Inc.

Due to a risk for bacterial contamination, Eco-Med initiated a voluntary recall to stop use of EcoGel 200 Ultrasound Gel on Aug. 4, 2021. However, all ultrasound gels and lotions manufactured by Eco-Med are at risk for bacterial contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex according to a determination by the FDA.

Health care providers and facilities are urged to immediately stop using and discard all ultrasound gel and lotion products manufactured by Eco-Med; not to purchase ultrasound gels or lotions manufactured by Eco-Med; to consult the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and professional society guidelines regarding ultrasound gel use and ultrasound cleaning procedures; to contact distributers regarding disposal of these products; and to report any adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with use of these products.