A drug that is primarily used to treat high blood pressure has been recalled by its manufacturer, Samaritan Health Services announced Thursday.
Teva Pharmaceuticals USA issued the recall for prazosin hydrochloride capsules after discovering the pills may contain nitrosamine impurities, which have been associated with potential cancer risk. The impurity has been identified as N-nitroso Prazosin impurity C.
Prazosin hydrochloride is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure and is also used off-label to address PTSD-related symptoms.
Samaritan pharmacies reported that fewer than 1% of their pharmacy customers received prescriptions from the affected lots. Officials are urging all community members — regardless of where they receive care or fill prescriptions — to consult with their pharmacist or health-care provider to determine if their medication is part of the recall.
Patients with concerns about the recall or who wish to discuss alternative medications are encouraged to contact their health-care provider by phone or through MyChart.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the risk of serious adverse health consequences from the impurity is remote. However, the agency notes that exposure may cause temporary or medically reversible effects.
A list of affected lot numbers is available on the FDA website at fda.gov by searching for the Enforcement Report.