Constant Tylenol recalls prompt consumers to abandon loyalty

Johnson & Johnson was once viewed as the most trusted brand for healthcare-related products and drugs, including popular pain relief medication Tylenol. Unfortunately, this no longer seems to be the case as the company continues to battle a slew of recalls, specifically affecting the aforementioned Tylenol line. Drug stores are forced to replenish empty shelves with alternatives, leading consumers to consider switching brands.

The first publicized Tylenol recall took place in 1982 when someone – who, to this day, has not been caught – spiked the acetaminophen with poison. The “Cyanide Scandal,” as it was famously labeled, prompted the company to develop a tamperproof cap for its medications.

Despite the scare, Tylenol continued to be many consumers’ preferred brand until December 2009, when Johnson & Johnson recalled Tylenol Arthritis Pain 100 count, citing an unusual moldy, musty, or mildew-like color as the cause.

Since then, Johnson & Johnson’s track record has continued to crumble with the following recalls:

• March of 2010 – Infants’ Tylenol
• March 2010 – Children’s Tylenol
• April 30, 2010 – Tylenol Infants’ Drops, Children’s Tylenol Suspensions, and Children’s Tylenol Plus Suspensions
• June 15, 2010 –Tylenol Extra Strength Rapid Release Gels
• July 8, 2010 – Tylenol Extra Strength, Tylenol PM, and Children’s Tylenol
• October 18, 2010 – Tylenol 8 hour
• November 24, 2010 – Tylenol Cold Liquid products
• January 14, 2011 – Tylenol 8 hour, Tylenol Arthritis Pain, Tylenol Cold, Tylenol Allergy, and Tylenol Sinus
• March 29, 2011 – Tylenol 8 hour, Tylenol Arthritis Pain, Tylenol Sinus
• June 28, 2011 – Tylenol Extra Strength Caplets
• August 15, 2011 – Tylenol Cold Multi- Symptom Nighttime Rapid Release Gel caps
• February 17, 2012 – Infants’ Tylenol

A recent article in Kingsport Times News says that the constant flow of recalls “can make for an irked customer who’s brand-loyal, or who has been told by a doctor to take Tylenol for mild pain and fever.”

Are you irked yet? Or will you remain a loyal Tylenol consumer? We’d love to know if you’ve switched brands and encourage your comments below!