'Recall of Potassium Chloride Meds Over Heart Attack Risk: FDA Issues Warning'
Money | July 1, 2024, 7:33 p.m.
The FDA has issued a recall for two brands of potassium chloride capsules due to concerns that they may not dissolve properly, potentially leading to serious health risks including heart attacks. Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc. and American Health Packaging are recalling multiple batches of Potassium Chloride Extended-Release Capsules, USP (750 mg) 10 mEq K, after reports of "failed dissolution" in the pills. These capsules are commonly used to treat low potassium levels in patients with hypokalemia. The FDA warns that the improper dissolution of the capsules could result in elevated potassium levels, known as hyperkalemia, which can cause irregular heartbeats and even cardiac arrest. While no cases of hyperkalemia have been reported yet, the agency emphasizes the importance of discontinuing the use of these capsules and following recall instructions to prevent potential adverse events.