Glass fragments found in two bottles of the Actavis brand of amoxicillin oral liquid – a frequently prescribed antibiotic often used for treatment in children's ailments – is prompting a nationwide recall of the product.

An Actavis spokesperson says supplies of the company's Amoxicillin Actavis Powder for Oral Suspension will "definitely be in the Tauranga region".

The Actavis brand of amoxicillin oral liquid – typically prescribed in a bottle like this – is being recalled nationwide due to glass fragments found in two bottles.

"Supplies of Actavis amoxicillin will definitely be in Tauranga and are being recalled as part of a nationwide recall, as a precautionary measure."

Actavis Amoxicillin Actavis Powder for Oral Suspension comes in 125 mg/5 mL and 250 mg/5 mL quantity bottles – and both sizes are being recalled.

People in the Tauranga region who have supplies of Actavis amoxicillin need to visit the pharmacy where the prescription was created, says the Actavis spokesperson.

The Ministry of Health website says there have been no reports of any harm from the glass being in the bottles.

'The recall has occurred as a precautionary measure, as the glass fragments found in the bottles appear to have been broken off from the lip of the bottle during manufacturing of the product.”

The Ministry says amoxicillin is a frequently prescribed antibiotic and is often used for treatment in children for glue ear, chest, skin and urinary tract infections.

'It is also used for other less common conditions.”

Only the oral liquid Actavis Amoxicillin is affected. The capsule form and other brands of amoxicillin are not affected and alternative antibiotics to amoxicillin are available.

Actavis Amoxicillin oral liquid is packaged in glass bottles and is available in two strengths: 125 mg/5 ml and 250 mg/5 ml.

It is estimated up to 60,000 bottles are in the distribution chain, with the bulk being stopped and either held or returned to the distributor.

However, it's predicted between 10,000 and 20,000 bottles are likely to have been dispensed to individuals in since it became a fully subsidised medicine in New Zealand on July 1, 2014.

Actavis New Zealand Ltd confirms as a precautionary measure and in close co-ordination with the New Zealand Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority in New Zealand – known as Medsafe – the company has issued a consumer level recall of all batches of Amoxicillin Actavis Powder for Oral Suspension 125mg/5mL and 250mg/5mL.

'This recall is being made to all pharmacies, pharmaceutical wholesalers and consumers.

'Amoxicillin Actavis Powder for Oral Suspension is supplied in a glass bottle and there is a small possibility of glass fragments entering the powder.”

The company is advising all healthcare professionals, distributors and consumers to return product to the supplier through the appropriate channels, as part of the recall.

Actavis is working closely with Medsafe to rigorously investigate the matter.

Medsafe has provided information to health professionals about the recall.

Anyone wanting advice is advised to call Healthline 0800 611 116 or Plunketline 0800 933 922.

Key information for consumers and caregivers

•Do not give any further doses of Amoxicillin Actavis oral liquid.

•Contact your doctor or pharmacist for further advice. Your doctor may give you an alternative brand of amoxicillin, an alternative antibiotic or alternative treatment.

This recall only applies to the Actavis brand of amoxicillin oral liquid.

Any charge for health services provided as a result of this recall are at the discretion of the GP or pharmacist.