The top headlines for FOX Business Flash on March 21st are:
Pfizer said on Monday that it was recalling several blood pressure medications and two generic versions because of elevated levels of impurities that could cause cancer.
The pharmaceutical giant said it is recalling 6 lots of Accuretic tablets, 1 lot of quinapril and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, and 4 lots of quinapril HCl / hydrochlorothiazide tablets due to the presence of nitrosamines.
Pfizer said it was unaware of the adverse events associated with the recall.
Pfizer recalled an accurate blood-retaining drug and two cheaper versions of the rising levels of impurities that could cause cancer, the company said Monday. (Pfizer)
“Pfizer believes that the product’s benefit / risk profile remains positive, based on the data currently available,” the company said in a news release. “Long-term intake of N-nitroso-quinapril may be associated with a potential increased risk of cancer in humans, but there is no immediate risk to patients taking this drug.”
The company said everyone was exposed to nitrosamines. They are commonly found in water and foods such as salted and roasted meats, dairy products and vegetables. Excessive exposure over a long period of time may increase the risk of cancer, the company said.
The company encouraged patients taking the product to consult their doctor about alternative treatment options.
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Earlier this month, Pfizer Canada recalled Accuretic for high levels of nitrosamines.