Health Canada has issued a warning and recall notice after identifying a significant risk associated with incorrectly labeled blood pressure medications. The agency has alerted the public that certain medications designated for treating high blood pressure might actually contain pills meant for managing low blood pressure. This substitution could lead to severe health consequences for patients, including dangerously high blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, and possible organ damage.

The alert specifically pertains to medications produced by Marcan Pharmaceuticals Inc., which is based in Ottawa and offers over 170 different dosages for various medical conditions. Marcan has initiated a recall of two specific lots of their MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets after it was discovered that some bottles may have been filled with the incorrect midodrine 2.5 mg tablets instead. MAR-Amlodipine is commonly prescribed to help control high blood pressure and alleviate chest pain in adults.

This recall highlights the critical importance of medication safety and proper labeling in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Patients taking MAR-Amlodipine are advised to check their medications carefully and report any discrepancies. Health Canada continues to monitor the situation, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to protect public health and safety.