Overview

In recent years, a number of blood pressure medications—primarily in the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) class—have been recalled due to concerns about trace contaminants. The issue has centered on substances like NDMA (N-nitrosodimethylamine), which can pose health risks if consumed over time. Recalls are issued by manufacturers and coordinated with the FDA to remove affected lots from distribution. If you use an ARB or a combination product that contains one of these drugs, it’s worthwhile to verify whether your exact product is part of a recall. This article explains which drugs have been involved, how to check your medication, and practical steps you can take to stay safe while continuing effective blood pressure management.

Which drugs are affected

In many recall rounds, the medications most commonly cited are those containing valsartan, losartan, or irbesartan. These ARBs are widely used as stand-alone therapies or in combination products with diuretics. The recalls typically cover specific lots or bottle codes rather than entire product lines. Because manufacturers source raw materials from different suppliers, a recall can affect some lots but not others, even within the same brand. Always check the exact product name, the lot number, and the expiration date against the official recall notices from the FDA and the manufacturer.

• Valsartan-containing products (often with NDMA-related concerns)
• Losartan-containing products (NDMA-related concerns)
• Irbesartan-containing products (NDMA-related concerns)
• Combination products that include one of these ARBs

How to check if your medication is recalled

To determine whether your specific medicine is part of a recall, you’ll need to verify several identifiers. Start with the label on the bottle or blister pack to find the lot number and expiration date. Then compare those details to the recall notice published by the FDA and the drug’s manufacturer. If you’re unsure, your pharmacist can check the recall lists and confirm whether your lot is affected. Useful resources include the FDA Drug Recalls database and the manufacturer’s consumer hotline. Because recall lists are updated as tests are completed, re-check the status if you receive new information or a new shipment.

• Check the labeling: lot number, expiration date, and product name
• Consult the FDA's recall notices and the manufacturer’s recall list
• Ask your pharmacist to verify your lot against the latest notices
• Keep a current medication list handy and update it as needed

What to do next if your medication is recalled

1. Do not stop taking your medication abruptly without talking to your clinician. Sudden changes in blood pressure management can be risky.
2. Contact your prescribing clinician or cardiologist to discuss safe alternatives. Depending on your health profile, you may switch to another ARB or to a different class of antihypertensive medications.
3. Coordinate with your pharmacist or the recall program to obtain a replacement product. Many recalls offer a free replacement, a different lot, or a suitable substitute after review.
4. Switching medications usually requires dosage adjustments and monitoring. After you switch, monitor your blood pressure at home and report any persistent changes or symptoms to your clinician promptly.
5. Dispose of or return recalled medication following the recall notice directions. Do not flush medicines unless the notice explicitly instructs you to do so.

Practical tips for staying safe

• Keep a current, organized list of all your medications, including drug names, doses, NDC numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates.
• Set up reminders with your pharmacy to receive recall alerts for your current medications.
• If you need a substitute, ask your clinician about alternatives in the same drug class or across different antihypertensive classes, and confirm compatibility with your health conditions.
• If you suspect a recall, contact your pharmacist or clinician promptly, and do not rely on social media or unverified sources for recall confirmations.

Bottom line

Recall notices are designed to protect patient safety. By staying informed, verifying your specific product, and working closely with your healthcare team, you can maintain effective blood pressure control while waiting for safe replacements. Regular monitoring and a well-documented medication list are your best tools in this process.