Valsartan Recall: Cancer-Causing Impurity Discovered in Blood Pressure Medicine 

Valsartan belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and is typically used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure. Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Inc. manufactures valsartan and the company’s manufacturing process has come under scrutiny after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported that laboratory tests revealed that batches of the drug contained a cancer-causing carcinogen known as N-nitrosodimethylamine or NDMA.

FDA Announces Voluntary Recall 

In 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced a voluntary recall of several drugs containing the active ingredient valsartan. The FDA asserted in its news release that it was committed to quickly removing drug products from the market when a lapse in the quality of drugs is detected and problems with manufacturing have the potential to create risks to patients.

Side Effects of Using Contaminated Valsartan

Some of the known side effects of overexposure to valsartan contaminated with NDMA include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Side or back pain
• Digestive problems
• Difficulty breathing
• Kidney damage or failure

The most consequential threat to contaminated valsartan is the increased likelihood of developing certain cancers. The NDMA and other carcinogens present in certain batches of the dangerous drug have been known to cause leukemia, pancreatic cancer, and prostate cancer, among other conditions.

How an Attorney Could Help

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the potential side effects of contaminated valsartan, you could benefit from discussing your options with an attorney. A law firm can review your medical records and advise you on the potential strength of your claim. If an attorney concludes that you might be entitled to compensation, they could guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit.

FDA Link: Laboratory analysis of valsartan products | FDA