It may be unnerving to find out that one or more of the medications you are taking is subject to a manufacturer recall. However, you are encouraged to continue taking a recalled medication as prescribed until your doctor tells you to stop. Take a closer look at why you should keep taking your medication until directed otherwise and how to learn more about a recall.
Why you don’t want to stop taking your medication
In some cases, failing to take your medication as directed may be more harmful than taking something that is subject to a recall. This may be especially true if you use a sartan medication to control high blood pressure or because you suffer from congestive heart failure. It is important to note that most recalls are voluntary and are often caused by labeling or other problems that occur during the manufacturing process.
How to learn more about a drug recall
It may be possible to learn more about a recall by going directly to the FDA website. Alternatively, you can ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information about a recall and whether you should consider using another medication to treat your condition. If a drug poses a serious threat to your health, your doctor or pharmacist will likely contact you about the recall.
If you experienced health issues after taking a tainted medication, you may be entitled to compensation or other relief. It might be worthwhile to pursue a mass tort claim in an effort to obtain a financial award from a drug manufacturer or other potentially negligent parties. Your attorney may use medical records or other evidence to show that taking a specific medication resulted in a reduced quality of life.