Breaking: I am confirming two U.S. recalls of over-the-counter nasal sprays, including a new nationwide pullback of ReBoost Nasal Spray for microbial contamination. The risk is real for people with weak immune systems. It could lead to severe infections if the contaminated product is used during cold and flu season.
What was recalled and why it matters
MediNatura’s ReBoost Nasal Spray was voluntarily recalled nationwide on December 10. One lot is affected. The lot number is 224268. The bottle expires in December 2027. Testing found yeast, mold, and a bacterium called Achromobacter. No illnesses have been reported so far. Even so, the safety bar here is high. Sprays go straight into nasal tissue, which is a direct path to the sinuses and lungs.
In mid November, Walgreens recalled more than 41,000 bottles of its Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol. Two lots are involved. Lot 71409 expires February 28, 2027. Lot 71861 expires August 31, 2027. Testing found Pseudomonas lactis. That recall was classified as Class II, which signals a moderate health risk.
Stop using ReBoost lot 224268 immediately. Stop using Walgreens Saline with Xylitol lots 71409 and 71861. Return or refund now.
What this means for your health
Most healthy people will not get sick from a single exposure. The risk rises if you have a weak immune system, chronic lung disease, or recent sinus surgery. In those settings, mold and certain bacteria can dig in. They can trigger sinus infections, pneumonia, or bloodstream infections.
Watch your body for warning signs after using these products. Symptoms may start within a few days. They can also take a bit longer. Seek care if you feel unwell.
- Fever or chills, new cough, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- Worsening sinus pain, facial swelling, or persistent headache
- Green, foul, or bloody nasal discharge
- Unusual fatigue or confusion
Highest risk groups include people on chemotherapy, transplant recipients, those on long term steroids, older adults with chronic lung disease, and infants.
What to do right now
Check your medicine cabinet. If you find an affected bottle, stop using it today. Do not try to sterilize the spray or the nozzle. It will not make it safe. Keep the bottle for the return.
- ReBoost: email recall@medinatura.com or call 800-621-7644, or return to the place you bought it for a refund
- Walgreens Saline with Xylitol: return to any Walgreens for a refund
- If you used a recalled spray and feel sick, contact your clinician and mention the recall
- If you are immunocompromised and used it, call your care team even if you feel fine
Safer options now: single use saline ampules, sterile isotonic saline in sealed squeeze bottles, or a neti pot with boiled then cooled or distilled water. Replace bottles every season, and never share sprays.
How contamination happens, and how to stay safer
Contamination can occur during manufacturing if sterile controls slip. It can also happen later, if the bottle, pump, or solution is not protected well enough. Multi dose sprays are at higher risk because air and tiny droplets move through the nozzle with each use. Preservatives help, but they are not perfect.
You can lower your own risk. Store sprays at room temperature. Keep caps on tight. Do not touch the tip to your nose or hands. Replace open bottles after 90 days. Use distilled or previously boiled then cooled water for any sinus rinse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My ReBoost bottle is not lot 224268. Is it safe to use?
A: Only that lot is under recall. If your bottle is from a different lot, you can continue use as directed. Stop if it looks cloudy, discolored, or smells odd.
Q: What infections could these germs cause?
A: Infections may include sinusitis, ear infections, pneumonia, or bloodstream infections in high risk people. Severity depends on your health and the dose.
Q: Are kids at risk?
A: Children with healthy immune systems are generally low risk. Call your pediatrician if your child used an affected bottle and has fever, cough, or sinus pain.
Q: Can I clean the nozzle with alcohol and keep using it?
A: No. You cannot guarantee the solution is sterile after contamination. Do not use it again.
Q: What are safe relief options while I wait for a replacement?
A: Try single use saline, a humidifier, steamy showers, hydration, and elevating your head at night. Ask your clinician about steroid nasal sprays if needed.
The bottom line
I am tracking these recalls closely because they hit the nose, the body’s front door during respiratory season. The message is simple. Check your bottles, stop use if affected, and act fast on refunds. If you are high risk, call your provider for advice. Clean process, clear labels, and smarter bottle design can prevent this. Until then, choose sterile products, use them cleanly, and listen to early symptoms. Your nose, and your lungs, will thank you.
