By Leada Gore
Two lots of blood pressure medication are being recalled over concerns they could contain too much of an impurity that, in high levels, has been linked to an elevated risk of cancer.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Aurobindo Pharma is recalling Nos. QE2021005-A and QE2021010-A of Quinapril and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP 20mg/12.5mg. The recall is due to the presence of nitrosamine, or N-nitroso-quinapril, a substance that is common in water and foods, including cured and grilled meats, dairy products and vegetables. Everyone is exposed to some level of nitrosamines, the FDA said, but exposure to them above acceptable levels over long periods of time may increase the risk of cancer.
Quinapril and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets are used for the treatment of hypertension to lower blood pressure. Patients should contact their doctor or health care provider about whether to continue taking their medication, or whether to consider an alternative treatment prior to returning their medication.
To date, Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. has not received any reports of adverse events related to the recall.
Consumers with medical questions regarding this recall or to report an adverse reaction should contact Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876 (Option 2), 24 hours per day, 7 days per week or atpvg@aurobindousa.com.