Prescription pain drugs recalled across Canada amid potentially fatal risks
A lot of JAMP-Pregabalin, used to treat pain caused by nerve damage or fibromyalgia, is being recalled because some bottles labelled with 50 mg capsules could contain 150 mg capsules, Health Canada said.
Prescription nerve damage medication is being recalled nationwide over concerns that patients could receive a “much larger” dose than prescribed — with potentially fatal consequences.
A lot of JAMP-Pregabalin, used to treat pain caused by nerve damage and fibromyalgia, is being recalled because some bottles labelled with 50 mg capsules could contain 150 mg capsules, Health Canada said in a .
“Taking too much pregabalin or suddenly increasing the dose could potentially lead to an overdose, which can be life-threatening,” the agency said.
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The recall concerns JAMP-Pregabalin 50 mg capsules with the Drug Identification Number 02435985, lot number 2305012747 and expiry date of August 2026.
Symptoms of a pregabalin overdose could include sudden mood changes, sleepiness, confusion, depression, agitation, restlessness and seizures, according to Health Canada.
Plus, taking too much pregabalin alongside other central nervous system drugs could lead to heart issues and death, the agency added.
Patients shouldn’t abruptly stop taking the drug without consulting a doctor, Health Canada added, because it could result in withdrawal symptoms like nausea, diarrhea and convulsions.
The agency is asking people to check their pill bottles to make sure they only contain 50 mg capsules. If there are any 150 mg capsules or you’re not sure, return it to your pharmacy, which will check the pills and provide a replacement if necessary.
If you’re experiencing overdose symptoms, seek immediate medical attention, Health Canada added.
The agency said it’s “monitoring the company’s recall and investigation, including its implementation of corrective and preventive actions to prevent this issue from reoccurring.”
Health Canada is asking patients to report any side effects or complaints to the agency.
EM
Elissa Mendes is a breaking news reporter, working out of
the Star’s radio room in Toronto. Reach her via email: emendes@thestar.ca
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