Pfizer Recalls Effexor XR and Venlafaxine HCl Lots

Pfizer Inc. is recalling two lots of Effexor XR (venlafaxine HCl), 30-count and 90-count bottles of 150 mg extended-release capsules, as well as one lot of 90-count Greenstone LLC-branded Venlafaxine HCl 150 mg extended-release capsules. The recall is the result of a pharmacist report that one bottle of Pfizer’s Effexor XR contained one capsule of Tikosyn (dofetilide) 0.25mg among the Effexor XR capsules. According to the company, Pfizer has not received any other such reports, and these three lots are being voluntarily recalled as a precaution because they were packaged on the same line.
 
Effexor XR is an antidepressant indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Tikosyn is a Class III antiarrhythmic drug used to treat irregular heartbeat in patients with atrial fibrillation. According to the company, the use of Tikosyn by an Effexor XR/Venlafaxine HCl patient could potentially cause serious adverse health consequences that could be fatal.
 
This recall is at the patient level and involves Pfizer lot numbers V130142 and V130140, which both expire in October 2015, and Greenstone lot number V130014, which expires in August 2015. These products were distributed nationally to wholesalers, distributors, certain government agencies, patient assistance programs and retailers, such as pharmacies and hospitals. Customers are being notified by UPS next day mail, and Pfizer is arranging for the return of the recalled products.