Pfizer announced that it has withdrawn shipments of the blood pressure medication Acuratic and two cheaper authorized versions of the drug due to the presence of elevated levels of nitrosamines, a contaminant that may potentially cause cancer. The company stated on Monday that it has not received any reports of adverse effects related to the drug so far.
Nitrosamines are common in water and food, including processed and grilled meats, dairy products, and vegetables. Long-term exposure to impurities above acceptable levels may increase cancer risk. However, Pfizer indicated that there is no direct risk to patients currently taking the medication.
The pharmaceutical company advised that patients currently using these products should consult their doctors regarding alternative treatment options. Pfizer Canada also recalled Acuratic this month due to the same impurities. Last year, the company similarly withdrew the smoking cessation drug Chantix due to elevated levels of nitrosamines in those tablets.
