Blood Pressure Medications Recalled Due to Cancer-Causing Chemical: What Patients Need to Know

Recall of Blood Pressure Medications, the Prazosin Hydrochloride Over Cancer Risk

A major recall of blood pressure medication has sparked concern among patients and healthcare providers nationwide. Over 580,000 bottles of prazosin hydrochloride, a widely prescribed medication for hypertension, have been voluntarily recalled by Teva Pharmaceuticals USA due to the detection of potentially cancer-causing impurities in certain lots. This article details the recall, the reasons behind it, affected products, and important steps for patients taking these medications.

What Is the Recall About?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified this recall as a Class II risk, which means the affected medication could cause temporary or medically reversible health issues, but the chances of severe health consequences are minimal. The recall involves prazosin hydrochloride capsules in doses of 1 mg, 2 mg, and 5 mg. This medication is commonly used to manage high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow.

The recall follows tests revealing elevated levels of a carcinogenic impurity called “N-nitroso Prazosin impurity C,” a type of nitrosamine chemical that can form during the drug’s production or storage. Nitrosamines are known for their potential to increase cancer risk with long-term exposure.

Which Products and Batches Are Affected?

The recall affects multiple lots of prazosin hydrochloride capsules distributed by Teva Pharmaceuticals and Amerisource Health Services. These bottles come in sizes ranging from 20 to 1,000 capsules. Expiration dates of the recalled products span from October 2025 through February 2027.

Here are some key details of the recalled medication:

• Bottles contain 1 mg, 2 mg, or 5 mg capsules.

• Distributed under National Drug Codes (NDCs) assigned to Teva Pharmaceuticals in various bottle sizes.

• Specific lot numbers and expiry dates correspond to the recalled batches.

Patients are strongly advised to check their medication bottle labels, including lot numbers and expiration dates, against the FDA recall list available on official regulatory websites.

Health Risks and FDA Classification

The presence of the carcinogenic impurity led the FDA to issue a warning that prolonged exposure above established safety limits may increase the risk of cancer. However, the current classification indicates no immediate severe health threat for patients who have taken the medication. The risk is more relevant with extended use over time.

Patients should note that prazosin hydrochloride is also sometimes prescribed off-label for treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, such as nightmares. The recall thus affects patients taking the drug for multiple conditions.

What Should Patients Do?

If you are currently using prazosin hydrochloride medication, it is important to follow these steps:

• Do not abruptly stop medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

• Check the label on your medication bottle including lot numbers and expiration dates to see if it matches any on the recall list.

• Contact your pharmacist or prescribing doctor immediately if your medication is part of the recall.

• Discuss alternative treatments or replacement options with your healthcare professional.

• Return or dispose of any recalled medication according to FDA-recommended guidelines.

The recall of over half a million bottles of blood pressure medication due to potentially cancer-causing impurities underscores the importance of drug safety monitoring. Patients using prazosin hydrochloride for hypertension or PTSD should remain vigilant by checking product labels and consulting healthcare providers for guidance. While the FDA classifies the recall risk as moderate, timely action can help ensure continued health and treatment effectiveness.

Stay updated on medication recalls and health advisories from trusted sources to protect your well-being. Always communicate with your healthcare team before making any changes to your prescribed treatments.