Common blood pressure drug recalled over cancer concerns

More than a billion people around the world (30% of the global population) have high blood pressure. This condition increases the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, chronic kidney disease among other serious health complications. Now, the US Food and Drugs Administration has issued a recall of a popular drug that many hypertensive patients in America are prescribed. The recall was due to concerns the medication could increase cancer risks.

Recall

According to the FDA, drug manufacturer, Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc. has voluntarily recalled four lots of the blood pressure medication, Quinapril. The drugs, sold in 20 mg and 40 mg, are suspected to contain an elevated level of nitrosamine impurity N-Nitroso-Quinapril, above the acceptable daily intake level. The company has received no reports of illness that appear to relate to this issue. In a statement, the FDA said:

Everyone is exposed to some level of nitrosamines. These impurities may increase the risk of cancer if people are exposed to them above acceptable levels over long periods of time.

According to the recall, nitrosamine impurities are common in consumables, including cured and grilled meats, vegetables and dairy products.

What should consumers do?

Both the manufacturers and the FDA have advised patients taking the medication to continue with it while speaking with their healthcare provider for possible alternative treatments. However, the FDA has ordered that sale of the affected lots be stopped immediately.

Wholesalers, distributors and retailers that have Quinapril Tablets USP, 20mg, and 40mg that are being recalled should discontinue distribution of the recalled product lots immediately

Lupin Pharmaceuticals said it stopped making the drug in September, and was working with distributors to arrange for the return of the recalled product lots.

Sources used:

AARP: Blood Pressure Medication Recalled for Cancer Risk

FDA: Lupin Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Four Lots of Quinapril Tablets Due to Potential Presence of N-Nitroso-Quinapril Impurity

USA Today: Blood pressure tablets recalled over potential cancer risk, FDA announces