The Recall Desk
SevereFDA (Drugs)·D-1022-2018·Announced 2018-08-08

Valsartan tablets recalled due to carcinogen impurity in active ingredient

H.J. Harkins Co. is recalling Valsartan tablets 160 mg because a carcinogen impurity was detected in the active pharmaceutical ingredient used to manufacture the product.

What this means for you

Illness, injury, or structural failure has been reported. Stop using the product immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund or repair.

Our severity reasoning: The recall is classified as FDA Class II, and the hazard involves a carcinogen impurity, which aligns with the rubric criterion for Severe severity (FDA Class II with significant health risks).

Plain-English summary

H.J. Harkins Company Inc dba Pharma Pac is recalling Valsartan tablets 160 mg, 90-count bottles (NDC 43547-0369-09). The tablets are yellow, capsule-shaped, biconvex, film-coated, and debossed with '343' on one side and 'HH' on the other. The specific lot affected is # VSA000OV, with a manufacturer's original lot # 343B17015 and an expiration date of 02/19.

The recall was initiated because a carcinogen impurity was detected in the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) used to manufacture the drug product. The source text does not specify the name of the impurity or the quantity of units affected beyond the product description.

The product was distributed to a physician's office. Patients who have been prescribed this specific lot of Valsartan should contact their healthcare provider for guidance on alternative treatment options. Do not take the recalled product until further notice.

The recalled product

Product
Valsartan tablets 160 mg, 90-count bottle, Rx Only, Repackaged by H.J. Harkins Co, Inc. Grover Beach, CA 93433, NDC 43547-0369-09. Tablet is yellow, capsule-shaped, biconvex, film-coated tablets debossed with 343 on one side and HH on the other side.
Affected units
540

Is your product affected?

Check your packaging against the codes below. If any of them match, the product is part of this recall.

Lot numbers (2)

  • Lot # VSA000OV Manufacturer's original lot # 343B17015
  • exp date 02/19 NDC 43547-0369-09

Distribution

Distribution scope not specified by the agency.