Panama Orders Recall of Colgate Toothpastes Due to Adverse Health Effects
The Ministry of Health (Minsa) of Panama has mandated the withdrawal of three Colgate-brand toothpastes after reports of health risks, including oral lesions, pain, burning sensations, gum inflammation, and lip swelling. The decision, announced on August 9, 2025, follows an alert from Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) regarding potential adverse effects linked to these products, reports 24brussels.
The toothpaste products subject to recall are Colgate Clean Mint (sanitary registration 114356 from Brazil), Colgate Total Clean Mint Toothpaste (sanitary registration 206275 from Brazil), and Colgate Clean Mint Toothpaste (sanitary registration 206112 from Mexico). This action is supported by Minsa Resolution 165, issued on July 25, 2025, which suspends the registrations and orders the withdrawal of Colgate Total Clean Mint Toothpaste.
Minsa’s directive comes in response to user complaints forwarded by ANVISA regarding the aforementioned toothpaste causing severe oral complications. In light of these concerns, Brazil has opted for a precautionary recall of all batches of the affected dental products, which contain stannous fluoride, a common oral care agent.
Colgate Palmolive (CA) Inc. and related distributors have until August 24 to report all batches removed from the market and to notify the National Directorate of Pharmacy and Drugs. This is not the first warning issued by Minsa; a previous notification on June 13 addressed possible health impacts of stannous fluoride, despite there being no initial reports of negative reactions from consumers.
Stannous fluoride serves as an active component in many toothpaste and mouthwash brands worldwide, functioning to prevent cavities and dental plaque. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) emphasizes that stannous fluoride is safe for use when compliant with proper labeling and standards as outlined in their Over-the-Counter Human Oral Hygiene Drug Monograph.
