By Orlando Mayorquin- Four lots of the blood pressure medication Quinapril were voluntarily recalled last week by drug manufacturer Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc. over concerns it could increase the risk of cancer, according to the .
Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc.’s Quinapril tablets, sold in 20 mg and 40 mg, may contain an elevated level of nitrosamine impurity, N-Nitroso-Quinapril, above the acceptable daily intake level. Nitrosamine impurities are common in consumables, including cured and grilled meats, vegetables and dairy products, according to the recall.
“Everyone is exposed to some level of nitrosamines,” the recall states. “ These impurities may increase the risk of cancer if people are exposed to them above acceptable levels over long periods of time.”
Patients who are on the medication don’t need to stop taking it immediately, but are advised to discuss an alternative treatment with their healthcare provider.
The affected lots were distributed from March 2021 to Sept. 2022 and have expiry dates ranging from Dec. 2022 to March 2024. They came in 90-count bottles. See the affected lot numbers here.
Lupin Pharmaceuticals Inc. said it stopped making the drug in September, and was working with distributors to arrange for the return of the recalled product lots.
No illnesses associated with the recalled drug have been reported thus far, the company said.
Quinapril is used to treat high blood pressure. Another drug maker recalled its lots of the drug over the same cancer risk in October. (USA Today)
