The FDA said drugmakers have recalled more than 580 000 bottles of a blood pressure medication over concerns it may include a cancer-causing chemical, with Teva Pharmaceuticals USA and distributor Amerisource Health Services issuing voluntary recalls this month for the containers of various strengths of prazosine capsules.
Known as prazosin hydrochloride, the capsules come in 1 mg, 2 mg and 5 mg doses, reports CBS News. It helps relax blood vessels to facilitate blood flow and is sometimes prescribed for nightmares and other sleep disturbances caused by post-traumatic stress disorder.
Teva Pharmaceuticals did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
In its recall orders posted on its website, the FDA said it has classified the affected lots as a Class II risk because some may have nitrosamine impurities that are considered potentially carcinogenic.
The chemicals can form when a drug is manufactured or stored, according to the agency.
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
FDA carcinogen-related recalls could cause shortages of hypertension drug
FDA issues voluntary recall of generic blood pressure drug
FDA recalls anxiety drug after dangerous labelling error