It has been revealed by Johnson & Johnson unit, Janssen that it is in process of discussion with regulatory authorities in five countries to address trace amounts of a fungicide found in certain lots of its HIV drug Prezista. The discussion was initiated by Janssen. It is believed that the discussion took place after Janssen received four consumer reports of an uncharacteristic musty, moldy odor.

Meanwhile, it has come to light that the recall of J&J's Tylenol pain reliever and other medications also originated with complaints of a musty odor. Since 2010, the company has recalled more than 300 million bottles and packages of adult and children's consumer medicines.

It has been revealed by the Janssen's investigation that the odor is likely caused by trace amounts of tribromoanisole (TBA) -- a fungicide used in packaging materials -- found in bottles sourced from a common supplier. Moreover, couple of patients also reported of temporary gastrointestinal symptoms after taking the HIV drug, but there were no reports of serious adverse events caused by the presence of TBA.

Janssen has urged patients or users to return the Prezista 400mg or 600mg tablets to their pharmacist, if they experience an uncharacteristic odor from the drug. The countries which are said to be affected include Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany and Austria.