Ranbaxy Recalls Generic Lipitor

The presence of tiny glass particles has prompted Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc. to voluntarily recall over 40 lots of its generic version of Lipitor, the popular cholesterol-lowering medicine.

The Associated Press (AP) reports that Ranbaxy, a subsidiary of Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd., recalled 10-, 20- and 40-milligram doses of tablets of atorvastatin calcium.

Except for three lots that contain 500 pills per bottle, all other recalled lots contain 90 pills per bottle. The 80-milligram strength tablets are not affected by the recall, reports AP. There have been no reports of injuries or deaths tied to the recalled product.

The recall may result in a shortage of the drug, says the Food and Drug Administration. However, the company said while the voluntary recall may interrupt the supply temporarily, it expects to complete its investigation of the problem within two weeks and recommence shipments, writes the Wall Street Journal.

Over the past few years, quality lapses at Ranbaxy factories have put the company under intense scrutiny by U.S. regulators. The Wall Street Journal reports Ranbaxy is under a consent decree that requires the company to improve manufacturing practices and quality controls at several plants. The decree keeps the company from making certain generic drugs -- but not atorvastatin -- until the problems are fixed.

If you or a loved one has been harmed by any such drug, contact Sokolove Law today for a free legal consultation and to know if a dangerous drug lawyer may be able to help you.

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