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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

About FDA

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What is a recall?

En Español

A recall is when a product is removed from the market or a correction is made to the product because it is either defective or potentially harmful. 

Sometimes a company discovers a problem and recalls a product on its own. Other times a company recalls a product after FDA raises concerns.

If you have a medicine or device that has been recalled, talk to your health care professional about the best course of action. For other products, such as foods, dietary supplements, and cosmetics, take them back to the place of purchase and ask for a refund. Stores generally have a return and refund policy when a company has announced a recall of its products.

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