The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled over 7 000 bottles of the duloxetine antidepressant drug known as Cymbalta after a chemical that can increase the risk of cancer was found in the medication.
Recall still ongoing
After detecting levels of N-nitroso-duloxetine in the antidepressants Cymbalta or Duloxetine, the FDA has recalled the medicine, as reported by capetownetc.
N-nitroso-duloxetine is a chemical that can increase the risk of cancer. The FDA initiated the recall on 10 October and it is still ongoing.
The recall is categorised as a Class II recall. The FDA describes this as ‘a situation in which use of, or exposure to, a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote’.
The recalled medicine has the lot number 220128 and an expiration date of December 2024.
What are nitrosamines?
Although exposure to some levels of the chemical is common, exposure to nitrosamine impurities above acceptable levels and over long periods may increase cancer risk.
They exist in low levels in various types of food products including fish, beer, fried foods, meats and dairy products. Tobacco products also contain the chemical.
“Nitrosamines refer to any molecule containing the nitroso functional group. These molecules are of concern because nitrosamine impurities are probable human carcinogens.”
World Health Organization
Alarming increase in cancer cases among under-50s
Over the last 30 years, cancer diagnoses among under-50s have risen by 80% globally.
While the reason for this increase is not yet totally clear, many experts are blaming ultra-processed food.
Professor Charles Swanton, an oncologist, has highlighted emerging links between the increase and people’s increasing consumption of ultra-processed food, as reported by Mail Online.
Ultra-processed foods include mass-produced bread, vienna sausages, instant noodles, and instant soup.
October is breast cancer awareness month
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women in South Africa. It is the most prevalent cancer amongst white and Asian women. It is the second most common cancer among black and coloured women.
The South African government states that the designation of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month in South Africa reflects a nationwide drive by healthcare structures to raise awareness of this disease.
Do you pay attention to any possible side effects of medication before you take it?
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