Pfizer (PTFE) Has recalled 12 batches of its smoking cessation drug Chantix because it may have a carcinogenic risk and because N-nitroso-varenicline is a carcinogenic impurity that may be higher than acceptable levels.
According to the recall notice, long-term intake of N-nitrosovarenicline can cause Cancer risk For humans, but for patients currently taking the recalled Chantix drug, there is no direct danger.
N-nitrosovarenicline is a nitrosamine impurity commonly found in water and food, such as cured meats and roasts, dairy products, and vegetables. The US Food and Drug Administration stated that exposure to nitrosamines is normal, but high levels can increase the risk of cancer.
However, the FDA also stated that the smoking risk that Chantix uses to help people control is higher than the cancer risk caused by the nitrosamine impurities in N-nitrosovarenicline.
The recalled Chantix drug affects two batches of 0.5 mg tablets, two batches of 1 mg tablets and eight batches of 0.5/1 mg tablets. The drug was distributed nationwide from June 2019 to June 2021.View the complete list of drugs affected by the recall Here.
Anyone with a recalled drug should see their healthcare provider for alternative treatment before stopping using the drug.
Affected patients should call Stericycle Inc. at 1-888-276-6166 from 8 am to 5 pm Eastern time, Monday to Friday, for instructions on how to return the recalled drug and obtain reimbursement for the drug.
As of 10:21 am Eastern Time on Tuesday, Pfizer’s stock price was $41.54, up $1.39 or 3.47%.
Photo: Getty Images/PHILIPPE HUGUEN
