Thyroid Medication Recall: Levothyroxine and Liothyronine
If you’re taking either of the prescription medications levothyroxine or liothyronine, used to treat hypothyroidism, you need to talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Certain dosages of these medications are being recalled due to concerns of the quality and purity of their ingredients.
The plant that manufactures the active ingredient found in levothyroxine and liothyronine is Sichuan Friendly Pharmaceutical Company, located in China. They have recently fallen under scrutiny by the FDA; during a 2017 inspection, they failed to meet Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP). This could mean the company has been attempting to replace more expensive quality ingredients with inferior cheaper ones, which could have serious health consequences.
Westminster Pharmaceuticals, the medication’s wholesale manufacturer, has recalled levothyroxine and liothyronine tablets in dosages of 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 milligrams. They report no adverse events so far, with the recall being voluntary. People who are taking these medications in those dosages should see their doctors about temporarily changing to a different type of thyroid medication.
Important Note: The FDA recommends patients continue taking all prescribed medications until they receive replacement prescriptions from their doctors.
Not the Only Recall From China
Levothyroxine and liothyronine aren’t the only recalls from China this month. Valsartan, the active ingredient in many blood pressure medications, came up contaminated with the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA). According to the FDA’s announcement, manufacturing flaws likely led to the formation of the carcinogen.
While the Chinese government and the FDA work hard to stay ahead of shady manufacturers, recalls still occur. Last year, Simple Diagnostics had to recall its alcohol swabs after its Chinese manufacturer failed to meet sterility standards. In 2015, an injectable form of the muscle relaxer baclofen, made by Taizhou Xinyou Pharmaceutical and Chemical Company, was recalled. Investigators found contaminants that could pose health issues when injected, and some samples were shown to potentially harbor endotoxin or other microbe contamination.
Stay Informed
Manufacturing problems and poor business ethics can occur anywhere. The best way to protect yourself is to stay up to date on medications and products that affect you. The FDA keeps an updated list of recalls, which you should check regularly if you’re taking any medications.
For over-the-counter medications and supplements, research your sources to ensure product potency and purity. The US Pharmacopeia (USP) offers a list of herbs and supplements that meet minimum guidelines.
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