A significant recall has been issued by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA Inc., affecting over 580,000 bottles of the common blood pressure medication, Prazosin Hydrochloride. The recall was prompted after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detected a carcinogenic impurity in the medication. The initial recall was announced on October 7, 2023, and was later classified as a Class II recall on October 24, 2023.
Class II recalls indicate that there is a possibility of health problems arising from the consumption of the product, although these issues may be temporary or reversible. The affected products include 1 mg, 2 mg, and 5 mg Prazosin Hydrochloride Capsules USP. According to a Health Hazard Assessment conducted by Teva USA, the overall risk of harm has been assessed as medium.
Teva Pharmaceuticals, based in New Jersey, has stated that Prazosin is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension, effectively lowering blood pressure. The company emphasized that there are numerous alternative treatments available for patients who may be affected by this recall. In a statement to NBC Chicago, Teva said, “Teva prioritizes patient safety and product quality at every stage of a medicine’s lifecycle.”
Patients currently taking Prazosin Hydrochloride are advised to contact their pharmacy for guidance on disposing of any remaining medication. Teva has also initiated the distribution of recall letters to customers, providing instructions on how to return the affected products.
This recall underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and testing of pharmaceuticals to ensure the safety and well-being of patients. With a proactive approach to patient safety, Teva aims to mitigate any potential health impacts stemming from this issue.
