As a precaution, companies are recalling some batches of irbesartan medicines due to presence of a chemical substance (AZBT) in an amount over the limit permitted for this product. Patients taking irbesartan medicines should continue to take their medication.
A total of 44 batches of the irbesartan medicines are being recalled. These medicines are used to treat high blood pressure to help prevent heart attacks and stroke. They are also used in patients with heart failure or those who had a recent heart attack.
Patients being prescribed these medicines should continue to take their medication as the risk of stopping is greater than the risk associated with short-term exposure to ABZT above its acceptable level from packs that they already have. Not treating a patient’s high blood pressure or heart problems may lead to harms, so patients should not stop their treatment unless clinically advised.