Children's Ibuprofen Recall: Gel-Like Mass, Black Particles Found

This alert was compiled from official government recall data published by the FDA using automated analysis. All facts are sourced directly from official records. Last verified April 9, 2026.

You just got back from the pharmacy, feeling relieved you were able to snag the last bottle of children's ibuprofen. Now you're seeing reports about a product recall in the United States involving that exact medicine? Nobody wants to find out that something they bought to help their child feel better might actually be contaminated. Here's what you need to know about this important recall affecting American shoppers:

• Product: Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP (100 mg per 5mL, 4 FL OZ / 120 mL bottle)
• Manufacturer: STRIDES PHARMA INC
• Reason: Gel-like mass and black particles found in the product
• Units Affected: 89,592 bottles
• Lot Numbers: 7261973A, 7261974A (Exp. 01/31/2027)
• Distribution: Nationwide across the U.S.

Is Your Child's Ibuprofen Part of the 2026 Recall?

Strides Pharma Inc. has issued a voluntary recall for a specific lot of Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, 100 mg per 5mL. The bottles affected are the 4 FL OZ (120 mL) size. The reason for this recall is the presence of a foreign substance found within some bottles of the medication. Specifically, the firm received complaints of both a gel-like mass and black particles in the liquid. These lots of ibuprofen were sold across the U.S.

The affected product was manufactured for Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc. in Hawthorne, NY, but was made in India. Make sure you check the label carefully. The NDC number is 51672-5321-8. This situation highlights the importance of checking your medications, even those purchased from trusted retailers. While no specific retailers like Walmart, Target, or CVS are named directly in the recall notice, this product was distributed widely across the U.S., so it's possible you purchased it from one of them. This is considered a Class II recall.

What To Do Right Now

If you have this product at home, it's important to take action immediately to protect your child's health. Here's what you should do:

1. Stop using the Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, with lot number 7261973A or 7261974A (Exp. 01/31/2027) immediately and keep it out of reach of children.
2. Contact your healthcare provider or pediatrician if your child has taken this medication and experienced any unusual symptoms or adverse reactions.
3. Contact your pharmacy to determine the best way to dispose of the recalled product safely, following any local guidelines for medication disposal.
4. Report the incident to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program, either online or by downloading and submitting a form. This helps the FDA track adverse events and improve product safety.
5. Consider purchasing a different brand or formulation of children's ibuprofen from a trusted source to ensure you have a safe alternative on hand if your child needs it.

How Serious is this Recall?

This recall is classified as a Class II recall by the FDA. Based on the official recall notice, this means that the use of or exposure to the product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote. While the risk might be low, finding foreign substances in medication is obviously a serious concern for U.S. consumers.

It's worth noting that the FDA issues hundreds of recalls each year, covering a wide range of products. While each recall is unique, this situation serves as a reminder to always carefully inspect medications and other products before use. It's important to be aware that other products manufactured by Strides Pharma Inc. have been subject to recalls in the past. This doesn't necessarily mean there's a systemic issue, but it's something to keep in mind.

Checking Your Medicine Cabinet

Take a moment to check your medicine cabinet. If you find a bottle of Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, with the following information, it's part of the recall:

• Product: Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, 100 mg per 5mL, 4 FL OZ (120 mL) bottle
• Manufactured for: Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc., Hawthorne, NY 10532
• Made in: India
• NDC: 51672-5321-8
• Lot Numbers: 7261973A, 7261974A
• Expiration Date: 01/31/2027

If you flip the product over, you'll find the lot number and expiration date printed on the bottle. Even if you think you threw away the bottle, take a moment to double-check. If you purchased the medication in the last few months, there's a higher chance you still have it. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your child's health. Remember, the distribution was nationwide, impacting people in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and all other states across the U.S.

This recall was announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For the official notice and complete details, visit www.fda.gov.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What exactly is being recalled?

Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, USP, 100 mg per 5mL, in 4 FL OZ (120 mL) bottles, with specific lot numbers (7261973A and 7261974A) is being recalled due to the presence of a gel-like mass and black particles found in the product.

Q: How do I know if my ibuprofen is affected?

Check the lot number on the bottle. If it's 7261973A or 7261974A and the expiration date is 01/31/2027, then the product is part of the recall. You will also find it has an NDC of 51672-5321-8.

Q: What should I do if my child has already taken the recalled ibuprofen?

Contact your doctor or pediatrician immediately, especially if your child is experiencing any unusual symptoms. Be sure to inform them about the recall and the potential contamination.

Q: Where was this ibuprofen sold?

The recalled ibuprofen was distributed nationwide across the U.S., so it could have been purchased at various pharmacies, drug stores, and retail locations. It was manufactured for Taro Pharmaceuticals U.S.A., Inc.

Q: Will I get a refund for the recalled ibuprofen?

The recall notice does not explicitly state whether a refund will be offered, but it is recommended to contact your healthcare provider. They may have additional guidance.