The Tribune

By RASHAD ROLLE

Tribune Staff Reporter

rrolle@tribunemedia.net

IN the wake of expanded recalls, the Ministry of Health is purchasing and distributing medication that does not contain the ingredient Valsartan, which is found in several blood pressure medications, the ministry said in a press release yesterday.

The statement said: “The Ministry of Health advised the public in July regarding notification received from the international pharmaceutical regulatory agencies related to contamination of the Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient contained in Valsartan, an ingredient in several blood pressure medications. The Ministry assured the public at that time that a thorough assessment of all the various manufacturer brands that have been supplied to the public sector and been completed and notices of the recall had been sent to all local vendors.”

“Multiple generic Valsartan brands were identified and confirmed, as having been in circulation at that time. All public sector pharmacies were advised of the items, and directed to remove the stock from circulation. Additionally, all patients believed to have received the drug were to be contacted for medication exchange. Further, a press release was sent to advise the wider public of the recall and the need for having their medications reviewed and exchanged as required.”

“In August, due to ongoing investigations by the Food and Drug Agency in the US and others notification of an expanded recall was received. This promoted a decision being taken by the ministry to purchase and distribute only non-generic Valsartan out of an abundance of caution; due to the magnitude of the impact of the contaminant in the API, being a potential cancer causing agent.”

“The ministry remains vigilant in its monitoring of this and all other global recalls and will continue to take action to protect the health of the public. We will advise if there are any further significant developments.”