Pharmacal pulls MG217 product as federal health agency warns of serious infection risks
Health company Pharmacal has issued a nationwide recall for a brand of eczema cream contaminated with dangerous staph bacteria capable of causing serious and potentially fatal infections. The recall affects MG217 Multi-symptom Treatment Cream & Skin Protectant Eczema Cream sold in 6-ounce tubes, with the contamination discovered during routine testing.
The contamination threat
The affected eczema cream has been found to contain Staphylococcus aureus, commonly known as staph bacteria. This contamination represents a significant health risk because staph can cause serious infections that require medical intervention. The Food and Drug Administration has warned that the bacteria has the potential to cause endocarditis, a serious heart infection, as well as sepsis and pneumonia. These conditions can be life-threatening, particularly in vulnerable populations.
The discovery of this contamination prompted Pharmacal to act quickly in removing the product from circulation. The company is directing users to immediately stop using the affected cream and has arranged for distributors to return contaminated stocks.
Who faces the greatest risk
While all users of the recalled cream face potential risk, certain populations are at significantly higher risk of developing serious infections from staph exposure. The FDA specifically warned that patients with weakened immune systems are at increased risk because their bodies cannot fight off bacterial infections as effectively. Additionally, individuals with compromised skin conditions, including those with existing wounds, burns, or other skin disorders, face elevated risk from staph exposure.
People using the cream for legitimate eczema treatment may already have compromised skin barriers, making them particularly vulnerable if the product contains bacterial contamination. This creates a compounded risk factor for the intended users of the product.
Identifying the affected product
Consumers who have purchased this eczema cream need to check specific product identifiers to determine if they have the recalled version. The affected product can be identified using its UPC number of 012277051067, lot code 1024088, and an expiration date of November 2026. The product was sold across the United States through multiple distribution channels, including retail stores, wholesale retailers, and online distributors.
Consumers who believe they have the recalled product should not use it under any circumstances. The cream should not be applied to skin even if it appears normal or unopened. Simply having the product in the home poses a risk if it could be accidentally used by family members or caregivers.
Current infection status and recommendations
Despite the contamination discovery, Pharmacal has not recorded any confirmed cases of infection from users of the recalled cream as of the recall announcement. This does not mean infections have not occurred but rather that no cases have been reported to the company. The FDA continues to monitor for adverse reactions and encourages anyone who has used the product and subsequently developed symptoms of infection to report these cases to health authorities.
Symptoms of staph infection can include fever, chills, redness or swelling at the site where the cream was applied, drainage from wounds, and general signs of illness. Anyone experiencing these symptoms after using the recalled cream should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers about the potential staph exposure.
Disposal and consumer action
Consumers who have the recalled cream should stop using it immediately. Rather than flushing medication down toilets or drains, the FDA recommends checking whether local pharmaceutical take-back programs exist in their communities. Many pharmacies and medical facilities offer safe disposal programs for medications and contaminated products.
Source: Based on FDA product recall information and Scripps News reporting, May 13, 2026.