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Now that more deaths have occurred, the gelatin-band method of sealing may soon become widespread. Last week Warner-Lambert, a drug company that is also the world's leading supplier of two-piece capsules, announced that it would use a method of fusing the capsules similar to Lilly's in manufacturing its product line. This summer SmithKline has begun using the gelatin band in its Contac and Teldrin capsules.
Producers candidly admit, though, that their new tamper-resistant packaging is far from tamperproof. Says Marshall Molloy, a spokesman for Warner-Lambert: "Given sufficient resources, skill and determination, the criminal can beat any safety measure known today."
Capsules remain popular with consumers despite the poison scares. While these pills are no more effective than tablets, many people find capsules better tasting and easier to swallow. Judy Newbold, a resident of Auburn, is resigned about the discovery of poisoned medication in her town. Says she: "It's just one of those things you have to take in stride. There are kooks everywhere."
No major consumer organization is currently pushing for a nationwide ban on % the sale of over-the-counter capsules. Dr. Sidney Wolfe, director of the Washington-based Health Research Group, argues that such a ban "would be a shortsighted solution to a terrorist threat." FDA Commissioner Dr. Frank Young concurs: "You are on a slippery slope when you allow a group of terrorists to start driving products off the market." The FDA, Young says, is not now considering any ban on capsules.
Still, manufacturers are facing tough decisions. It will cost Johnson & Johnson $150 million to pull out of the capsule market, and Bristol-Meyers will lose $38 million. These days executives are voicing varying degrees of commitment to the controversial capsule. Said a spokesman for American Home Products: "We have no intention at this point in time of discontinuing our over-the-counter capsule business." At another time, he implies, things could change. Echoed a spokesman for Sterling Drug, maker of Panadol and Midol pain relievers: "We are still marketing the capsules. But it's a fluid situation. Any instance, such as the recent tampering cases, causes us to review our products." A prudent middle course would be for all manufacturers to adopt one of the new technologies for safer capsules as quickly as possible. If that does not stop the poisonings, the companies may have to swallow hard and abandon capsules for good.