Teva Initiates Recall of Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets

Teva Pharmaceuticals is voluntarily recalling fourteen (14) lots of Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg and 750 mg, 100 and 1000 count bottles, in the United States to the consumer-level due to the detection of N-Nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) levels in excess of the Acceptable Daily Intake Limit (ADI).

NDMA is classified as a probable human carcinogen based on results from laboratory tests. NDMA is a known environmental contaminant and found in water and foods, including meats, dairy products, and vegetables.

Metformin Hydrochloride is indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve blood glucose control in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The lots being recalled are packaged under the Actavis Pharma, Inc. label and are contained in the table below. They were distributed nationwide in the USA as retail bottles of 100 tablets and 1000 tablets to Teva’s direct customers between January 8, 2019 and May 27, 2020.

The affected Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg and 750 mg, being recalled are described as:

• Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg, white to off-white capsule shaped tablets, debossed with an Andrx logo with “571”on one side and “500” on the opposite side.

• Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 750 mg, light yellow capsule shaped tablets, debossed with an Andrx logo with “577” on one side and “750” on the opposite side.

The complete list of lots is available on the FDA website.

Teva is notifying its distributors and customers affected by this recall via FedEx overnight mailing. Patients taking Metformin Hydrochloride Extended-Release Tablets, USP 500 mg and 750 mg, are advised to continue taking their medication and contact their pharmacist, physician, or medical provider for advice regarding an alternative treatment. According to the US Food & Drug Administration, It could be dangerous for patients with this serious condition to stop taking their metformin without first talking to their health care professionals.