Last week, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a recall for 135 batches of potassium chloride extended-release capsules due to flawed medication that could result in cardiac arrest. The recall was voluntary and was issued because of the failed dissolution of the capsules, which could potentially lead to high potassium levels, also known as hyperkalemia.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals recalled 114 batches of potassium chloride extended-release capsules, while American Health Packaging, on behalf of BluePoint Laboratories, recalled 21 batches of the same capsules last week. The recall for Glenmark was issued one Monday, followed by the recall for BluePoint the next day. Both capsules were manufactured by Glenmark, with no reports of hyperkalemia or serious adverse events related to the recall so far, according to the FDA.
The potassium chloride extended-release capsules are intended for patients with low potassium, or hypokalemia, and are available in bottles of 100 and 500. Consumers who have these capsules should consult with their physician or healthcare provider before stopping their use and seek medical advice if they have experienced any issues related to the drug product. The FDA has listed the recalled batch numbers for Glenmark and BluePoint capsules on their website.
