Valsartan Recall
What You Need To Know About The Valsartan Recall
Valsartan and other popular blood pressure pills have been in the news since July 2018. The recalls have been big news, but we take a deeper look at what is happening and why. We share what we found, plus information on when to call an attorney.
Important Note
Please note, DO NOT stop taking your blood pressure medicine. Consult with your doctor regarding any questions or concerns you may have.
A popular blood pressure medication, Valsartan, is being recalled. But, this recall includes several other blood pressure medicines. The medicines may have traces of cancer-causing ingredients.
A Timeline
In 2002, Diovan became available to treat high blood pressure. Novartis developed the drug and had exclusive rights for 10 years. In 2012, Diovan lost exclusivity. This is when other manufacturers could produce generic versions. Generics became available to the public. But, with generics, the manufacturing process also changed.
Change In Production
Manufacturers changed the production method to reduce costs and increase efficiency. They do this to lower the cost of their generic versions. This process introduced a new by-product into the medicine: a contaminant. No paperwork showcased this change and all medicine was cleared for release.
Lab Testing Reveals Contamination
By 2016, an independent lab tested the medicine and detected the impurity. It was immediately reported to the specific manufacturer. But, the manufacturer did nothing. This occurred again in 2018 where the impurity was yet again detected.
NDEA Contamination
An independent lab discovered the carcinogen and reported it. The lab found Valsartan included N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA). This is a known human carcinogen. Other companies have recalled their blood pressure medicines in light of the discovery.
FDA Investigates Valsartan
The FDA continues to investigate to detect if there are impurities present. Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research states,
“We have carefully assessed the valsartan-containing medications sold in the United States, and we’ve found that the valsartan sold by these specific companies does not meet our safety standards. This is why we’ve asked these companies to take immediate action to protect patients.”
More Shocking Discoveries
An investigation reveals this has been the case for years. Since 2012, the carcinogens have been present and gone unreported. This occurred because the FDA allows the manufacturers to test products themselves.
Many contaminated products have gone unreported and continue in production …until now. More and more products are being pulled from shelves as the public takes notice.
We Can Help!
It is the responsibility of the manufacturers to keep their products safe. It is the responsibility of the FDA to confirm these products pass safety tests. There is no tolerance for negligence when delivering health products to consumers.
If you or a loved one has a cancer diagnosis and uses these products, call us today. We will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. You deserve to feel safe when taking products for your health.
Our reputable lawyers are here to assist you through the legal process. If you take this medicine and have cancer, please consult with your doctor. There may be a relation between the two.
Call or text us today at 215-232-1000 and speak with one of our attorneys. Or, use our online contact form to schedule a free legal consultation.
We offer free consultations. You never pay us unless we recover money for you.