Health Canada further expands recall for blood pressure medications

Health Canada has announced that drug manufacturers have expanded their recall for several blood medications for a third time.

In July, an impurity known n as N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) was found in several medications that contain valsartan manufactured by Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceuticals.

The list of medications was expanded in August and now a second impurity known as N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) has been discovered.

Both NDEA and NDMA are classified as probable human carcinogens, meaning that long-term exposure could cause cancer.

The recalled medications are used to treat high blood pressure to help prevent heart attacks and stroke and are also given to patients who have had heart failure or a recent heart attack.

The newly-recalled Teva Canada drugs are listed below. For a full list of recalled valsartan medications, visit Health Canada’s website:

• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 80/12.5 MG, DIN 02356996, LOT 35211136A
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/12.5 MG, DIN 02357003, LOT 35211335A
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/25 MG, DIN 02357003, 35211844R
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/25 MG, DIN 02357011, 35210937R
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/25 MG, DIN 02357011, LOT 35210938R
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/25 MG, DIN 02357011, LOT 35210939R
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 160/25 MG, DIN 02357011, LOT 35210940R
• TEVA-VALSARTAN/HCTZ TABLETS 320/12.5 MG, DIN 02357038, LOT 35211546

Health Canada says that patients who take valsartan drugs should check their list of medications that are and are not recalled.

However, you should continue taking your medication unless you have been advised to stop by your health-care provider.

For further information on the recall, click here.