A voluntary nationwide recall of 3 different lots of the
antidepressant venlafaxine (Effexor, Pfizer Inc) has been issued by the drug’s
manufacturer owing to possible contamination with a heart drug and subsequent potentially
fatal consequences.
According to Pfizer, the action in being taken because 1
bottle of Effexor XR contained a single capsule of dolefetilide 0.25 mg, an
antiarrhythimic medication used to treat atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter and
maintain normal sinus rhythm. The probability that other bottles of Effexor XR have been similarly
contaminated is low the recall has been issued as a precaution.
“The use of Tikosyn by an Effexor XR/Venlafaxine HCl
patient, where the contraindications and drug-drug interactions with Tikosyn
have not been considered by the prescribing physician, could cause serious
adverse health consequences that could be fatal,” the company notes. Side effects of Tikosyn include torsade de pointes, which
can lead to death. Pfizer advises
patients who believe they may have mistakenly ingested Tikosyn instead of
Effexor XR/venlafaxine HCl to immediately contact their physician or hospital. Patients should also watch for signs of
abnormal heartbeat and inform their physician or hospital if they experience
any of the following: faintness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat.
Wholesalers, distributors, certain government agencies,
patient assistance programs, and retailers including pharmacies and hospitals
with product that is being recalled should stop distribution and promptly
return the product to Stericycle Inc.
The company advises these organizations to contact Styricycle at
1-888-345-0481 for instructions on returning product. Patients should contact their physician or healthcare
provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking
this drug.
