Blood pressure tablets with ‘cancer risk chemical’ recalled
BLOOD pressure pills contaminated with a chemical which can increase the risk of cancer have been recalled by the medicines watchdog.
Batches of Losartan and Irbesartan have been tainted with azido-tetrazole, a nitrogen-rich organic compound.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency has told pharmacies and wholesalers to pull 31 batches containing Irbesartan and two with Losartan as a “precautionary measure”.
However, health experts warned patients not to stop taking the drugs without consulting their doctor.
Chloe MacArthur, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation, said: “We support the MHRA’s decision. A recall like this can cause concern, but there is no evidence that this contamination has caused any harm to patients.
“It is really important that you do not stop taking your blood pressure medicine without talking to your doctor first. Suddenly stopping this medication could put your health at risk.”
The MHRA said there was no evidence the tainted pills had affected patients. It added previous recalls of similar products in 2018 and 2019 were part of a continuing joint investigation with other medicines regulators. The body’s chief executive, Dr June Raine, said: “Patient safety is our watchword. We’re recalling batches of certain sartan-containing products as a precautionary measure while we continue our investigation. It’s important healthcare professionals check their stock to quarantine and return these batches.
“If you’ve been taking one of the affected products, speak with your doctor or pharmacist before stopping any treatment. “They can address any concerns and can advise you on the best course of action.” Losartan and Irbesartan reduce high blood pressure and help prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems.
The latest recall announcement came a day after the MHRA pulled more than 4,000 packs of painkillers Co-codamol 30/500 effervescent tablets. It had concerns about the proportion of active ingredients.
People were urged to return any with the batch code 1K10121.
The MHRA is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK.