FDA recalls blood pressure medication over cancer risks

Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc. is recalling four lots of its blood pressure medication, Quinapril Tablets, because of an impurity known as nitrosamine being found in recent testing of the product, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA stated that no illness related to the medication has yet been reported and that the marketing of the Quinapril tablets ended in September. Quinapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor that is used to treat hypertension in order to lower blood pressure.

The tablets were contaminated by substances known as nitrosamines, which the FDA reports are commonly found in food and water. These impurities are found in meats, dairy products and vegetables, and can increase a person’s risk of developing cancer when faced with prolonged exposure, according to the FDA.

Those who take Quinapril tablets are being advised by the FDA to continue taking their medication until they contact a medical professional for personal advice in regards to alternate medication.

However, retailers are being told to discontinue the sale of Quinapril tablets immediately.

Anyone who has questions regarding the Quinapril recall is being told by the FDA to contact Inmar Rx Solutions Inc. at (877) 538-8445 from Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.