The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has just released a worldwide drug recall for a common high blood pressure medication. Valsartan is the drug in question and it’s been found to contain an impurity – N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) – which is linked to cancer. In a statement, the FDA said, “The presence of NDMA was unexpected and is thought to be related to changes in the way the active substance was manufactured.”
The first initial recall did not include the USA but the FDA has now expanded the recall to include America.
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Janet Woodcock of the FDA added, “We have carefully assessed the valsartan-containing medications sold in the United States, and we’ve found that the valsartan sold by these specific companies does not meet our safety standards. This is why we’ve asked these companies to take immediate action to protect patients.”
Several manufacturers have been listed to be affected by the recall including:
- Prinston – Pharmaceutical Inc.
- AvKARE
- A-S Medication Solutions LLC
- Bryant Ranch Prepack, Inc.
- HJ Harkins Company
- Major Pharmaceuticals
- Solco Healthcare
- Northwind Pharmaceuticals
- Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd.
- Proficient Rx LP
- Remedy Repack
- Solco Healthcare
- Teva Pharmaceuticals Industries Ltd.
Health Canada has released some recommendations for patients currently taking this medication, which includes:
- Unless advised to stop, continue taking this medication
- Speak to your doctor immediately about alternative treatment options
- Speak to a pharmacist as they may be able to offer you an alternative option not affected by the recall
- Also, speak to your pharmacist to ensure the product you are taken to treat your high blood pressure or heart failure is not recalled
Also Read : How to lower blood pressure quickly and naturally
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
