June 2025
A recent case from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) serves as a sobering reminder: following the instructions that come with your medication isn’t just important—it can be lifesaving.
The Tragedy in Texas
In a case published by the CDC, a 71-year-old woman in Texas died after using tap water in a nasal irrigation device. The water was contaminated with Naegleria fowleri, a brain-eating amoeba that caused a rare but deadly infection known as primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM).
Within days, she experienced severe symptoms—headache, fever, confusion—and despite treatment, passed away just over a week later.
This organism is most often found in warm freshwater lakes or improperly treated water systems. In this case, the woman used water from an RV campground, unaware of the risk.
What Went Wrong?
The CDC has long advised that nasal irrigation devices should only be used with distilled, sterile, or previously boiled and cooled water—never tap water. Unfortunately, this guidance wasn’t followed, and the consequences were tragic.
What You Can Do: Read the Label—Every Time
At Massey Drugs, we compound customized nasal rinses and always include clear, easy-to-understand instructions. For example, all of our nasal rinse prescriptions explicitly say to mix with distilled water only—no exceptions.
But here’s the key:
Even the best medication can be dangerous if not used properly.
Every label, insert, and pharmacist instruction is there for a reason. Reading and following them closely could prevent side effects, treatment failure—or in rare cases, serious harm.
How Massey Drugs Helps Protect You
When you receive a compounded medication from Massey Drugs, you’re getting more than just a prescription. You’re getting:
- Detailed usage instructions, including safe mixing guidelines
- Pharmacist support, if you have questions about how to use your medication
- High-quality compounding standards, so every preparation meets strict safety requirements
We believe patient education is part of the prescription—and that it’s just as important as the medication itself.
Stay Safe: Use Medications as Directed
- Never substitute ingredients unless your pharmacist or doctor tells you it’s safe
- Always ask questions if something is unclear
- And never assume tap water is sterile—even if it looks clean
If you’re unsure, ask. That’s what we’re here for.
Questions about your nasal rinse or compounded medication? Call Massey Drugs at 833.540.3500. We’re happy to help.
