As cold and flu season reaches its peak, it’s important to be cautious with over-the-counter remedies, particularly nasal sprays. A significant recall has been announced for over 41,000 bottles of Walgreens Saline Nasal Spray with Xylitol due to potential bacterial contamination.

Walgreens has voluntarily pulled the product from shelves following concerns about contamination with Pseudomonas lactis, a bacterium typically linked to raw milk products, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA has classified this recall as Class II, indicating a moderate risk level. While the likelihood of severe health consequences is considered low, there remains a possibility of temporary or reversible health effects.

The bacteria identified in the nasal spray, known for causing milk to spoil, can pose serious health risks. These include conditions such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and bloodstream infections.

The species of bacteria found in the nasal spray can cause milk to spoil, and carries serious potential health risks such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections and bloodstream infections.

The nasal spray is typically used to provide relief from nasal congestion and sinus pressure from a common cold or allergies.

The recall affected two batches of the 1.5 oz spray bottle, Lot #61409 expiring Feb. 28, 2027 and Lot #71861 expiring Aug. 31, 2027.

While the FDA initiated the recall on Nov.11, specific instructions weren’t provided. But it’s recommended to stop use and toss or return it.

Nasal sprays are common to reduce inflammation and clear up stuffiness.

Saline nasal sprays, in particular, are often used to flush out irritants like dust and pollen while providing moisture in dry environments caused by low humidity, air travel or heated environments — all common wintertime problems.

But overuse can lead to rebound congestion, also known as rhinitis medicamentosa, a condition that actually worsens symptoms like swelling of the nasal passage and even more severe persistent stuffiness.

Last year, a CVS-branded nasal spray for babies was recalled after they were found to have been produced in unsanitary conditions. The machines used to produce them were also used to make pesticides, Bloomberg News reported.