Published: 30 June 2022
Safety Information
Alert Communication
Accuretic found to contain nitrosamines
Accuretic (quinapril + hydrochlorothiazide) is being withdrawn from
use because it contains impurities called nitrosamines. This is a global
issue. Pfizer, the supplier of Accuretic, has been undertaking voluntary
recalls of the medicine around the world, including in Australia, Europe,
the United States of America and Canada.
- Advice for consumers and caregivers
- Information for healthcare professionals
- Products affected
- Further information
- Useful links
Advice for consumers and caregivers
Accuretic supply in New Zealand is about to be disrupted. If you are taking Accuretic, you will need to contact your health care professional and discuss changing to an alternative high blood pressure medicine as soon as possible. Keep taking Accuretic until you have spoken to your healthcare professional.
There is no known immediate health risk associated with nitrosamines. If taken long-term, nitrosamines may increase a person’s risk of getting cancer.
See the Pharmac website for more information about the Accuretic supply issue.
Medsafe cannot give advice about an individual’s medical condition.
Talk to your healthcare professional if you have any concerns about
a medicine you are taking.
Information for healthcare professionals
As Accuretic will soon no longer be available in New Zealand, all patients will need to be switched to an alternative treatment. See the Pharmac website for more information about funded, alternative treatment options.
Please report any
adverse events to the Centre for Adverse Reactions Monitoring.
Products affected
| Product name | Sponsor |
|---|---|
| Accuretic 12.5mg/10mg Film coated tablets | Pfizer New Zealand Limited |
| Accuretic 12.5mg/20mg Film coated tablets | Pfizer New Zealand Limited |
Further information
Nitrosamines are a type of N-nitroso compound. These compounds are commonly found in low levels in water and foods, including smoked and cured meats, dairy products and vegetables. Long-term exposure, over many years, may increase a person’s risk of developing cancer.
The presence of nitrosamines in some medicines was first identified in 2018 and is still being investigated globally.
Useful links
