A generic version of the allergy medication Zyrtec is being recalled nationwide because of potential cross-contamination with ranitidine, a heartburn drug.
Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories voluntarily recalled four lots of Cetirizine Hydrochloride Tablets USP 5 milligrams after a pharmacy technician identified discolored tablets with red dots while dispensing the medication, according to a July 20 FDA recall notice. The company said the issue raised concerns about potential contamination with ranitidine.
People with a hypersensitivity to ingredients in ranitidine could experience serious allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, hypotension, difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing and loss of consciousness if they take contaminated tablets. The company said it has not received any reports of adverse events related to the recall.
The recalled product was distributed nationwide by Rising Pharma Holdings in 100-count bottles. The affected lots — GY825029, GY825030, GY825031 and GY825032 — all have expiration dates of October 2028. Rising Pharma said it is coordinating the return of the recalled products.
