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Forest Pharmaceuticals Recalls Levothroid -- May 2003
May, 2003 -- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued recalls for the following Levothroid products, made by Forest Pharmaceuticals.
Levothroid Tablets (levothyroxine sodium tablets, USP), 25 mcg., 100-tablet bottles, FOREST, Recall # D-238-3; Lot 40245, Exp 05/2004, 14,131 bottles
Levothroid Tablets (levothyroxine sodium tablets, USP), 175 mcg., 100-tablet bottles, FOREST, Recall # D-239-3; Lot 5023, Exp. 05/2004, 12,398 bottles; Lot 5024, Exp. 05/2004, 9,192 bottles.
The reason for the recalls is contamination of tablets with trace levels of the solvent isophorone.
Isophorone is an industrial chemical used as a solvent in some printing inks, paints, lacquers, and adhesives. Identified as a possible carcinogen by the EPA, isophorone can cause irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat, and dizziness and fatigue.
If you are currently taking Levothroid in the 25 mcg or 175 mcg. dosage size, please contact your pharmacy to find out if your prescription is subject to this recall.
