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Blood Pressure Drug Recalled Due to Cancer Risk

Irbesartan tablets have been recalled due to the presence of an impurity believed to cause cancer.

Irbesartan / Image: Stada
Irbesartan / Image: Stada

A November 2nd USA Today article discussed the recall of a blood pressure medication that was recalled due to an impurity linked to cancer. Irbesartan tablets produced by ScieGen Pharmaceuticals are the subjects of the voluntary recall. They were sold in 75, 150, and 300 mg doses and labeled as Westminster Pharmaceuticals and Golden State Medical Supply, Inc.

The drug, which is prescribed to treat high blood pressure and kidney disease, was found to contain N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA). NDEA occurs naturally in certain foods, drinking water, air pollution, and industrial processes and is listed as a probable human carcinogen, according to The International Agency for Research on Cancer. ScieGen noted that the company has not been made aware of any adverse events related to the recall.