Thousands of blood pressure pills recalled in US over effectiveness concerns
More than 3,700 bottles of blood pressure medication have been recalled across the United States after testing found that the olmesartan component did not dissolve as required, potentially reducing the medication's effectiveness, Qazinform News Agency reports, citing the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Macleods Pharmaceuticals initiated the nationwide recall on October 7, 2026. The FDA classified it as a Class II recall on October 26.
The recall affects 3,744 bottles of olmesartan medoxomil, amlodipine and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure, or hypertension.
According to the FDA, the olmesartan component failed to meet dissolution specifications in two lots. Dissolution testing measures how a drug dissolves and releases its active ingredient in a liquid. Failure to meet the required standards may affect the medication's effectiveness.
The manufacturer said the issue could reduce or delay the absorption of olmesartan, potentially resulting in a temporary reduction in blood pressure control.
The recalled products include:
30-count bottles: Lot 12251163A, NDC 33342-246-07, expiration date May 31, 2027. A total of 3,528 bottles are affected.
90-count bottles: Lot 12251163B, NDC 33342-246-10, expiration date May 31, 2027. A total of 216 bottles are affected.
The affected tablets were distributed nationwide between November 21, 2025, and April 27, 2026.
The FDA defines a Class II recall as one in which exposure to a product may cause temporary or medically reversible health consequences, while the likelihood of serious adverse health consequences is considered remote.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that the U.S. would ease restrictions on six unapproved peptides despite FDA safety concerns.