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Boots has launched an investigation into how a packaging error on a batch of its paracetamol 500mg tablets which were incorrectly labelled occurred as the medicines regulator warns the public about the potential risk to their safety.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency yesterday urged patients to check their pack after it was discovered the foil blister inside the carton incorrectly states ‘Aspirin 300mg Dispersible Tablets’ instead of ‘Paracetamol 500mg Tablets’.

The MHRA said the affected batch on the bottom of the box is numbered 241005 and has an expiry date of 12/2029.

It urged people to stop using the product immediately and return it to a Boots store for a full refund, with or without the receipt. The recall affects 119,964 packs.

“Boots Paracetamol 500mg packs, with the batch number 241005, should not be kept at home, even if the error is known, as this could lead to confusion and an incorrect dose being taken,” the MHRA said.

“Anyone who has purchased this product for someone else should inform them as soon as possible.”

The regulator said Boots and the supplier Aspar Pharmaceuticals Limited “are conducting a full investigation into the issue”.

Dr Stephanie Millican from the MHRA urged people to seek advice from a pharmacist or other healthcare professional if they are unsure which pack they have purchased or have taken Boots Paracetamol 500mg Tablets and experienced side-effects.