Urgent Alert: High Blood Pressure Medication Recalled Due to Potential Cancer-Causing Impurity

In a move aimed squarely at patient safety, Accord Healthcare, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall for several specific lots of its Quinapril and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, USP, 20 mg/20 mg. This isn't just a minor administrative blip; it’s a significant development for anyone currently managing high blood pressure with this particular medication.

The reason behind this recall? It boils down to elevated levels of an impurity known as N-Nitrosoquinapril. Now, that's a bit of a mouthful, but what you really need to know is that N-Nitrosoquinapril belongs to a class of compounds called nitrosamines. The concern here is that, with long-term exposure, these impurities might potentially increase the risk of cancer. While it's crucial not to panic, the presence of these levels above the FDA's acceptable daily intake threshold necessitates this swift action.

Manufactured by Hetero Labs Limited and distributed right here in the U.S. by Accord Healthcare, Inc., this recall specifically targets the 20 mg/20 mg strength of Quinapril and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets. It's a voluntary recall, meaning the company proactively initiated it upon discovering the issue – a good sign, really, that they're prioritizing patient well-being.

Now, here's the absolute most important takeaway for patients: if you are currently taking Quinapril and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, do not, under any circumstances, stop your medication abruptly without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Suddenly discontinuing high blood pressure medication can lead to serious health risks, including dangerously high blood pressure spikes. Your healthcare provider is the best person to advise you on alternative treatments or a safe plan for switching medications.

To check if your prescription is among the recalled lots, take a moment to inspect your medication bottle. You’ll want to look for the specific lot numbers: GF20390, GF20391, GF27653, GF27654, GF27655, GF30628, and GF30629. All of these particular lots carried expiration dates in early 2023. If your medication matches these details, Accord Healthcare is advising consumers and distributors to cease distribution and quarantine any remaining stock immediately. For questions regarding the recall or instructions on how to return the product, you can reach Accord Healthcare directly.

For further information, including details on returning the recalled product, individuals can contact Accord Healthcare, Inc. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the rigorous quality control required in pharmaceutical manufacturing and the ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of the medicines we rely on daily. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider, especially when news like this emerges.