Pfizer recalls Inderal in Canada — what patients need to know (Aug 2024)

Pfizer pulled 15 lots of Inderal extended‑release capsules in Canada in August 2024 after testing found elevated nitrosamine levels. Health Canada issued the notice and advised patients to talk with their doctor about safe alternatives. If you take Inderal for blood pressure, migraine prevention, or another reason, this page explains the quick steps to protect your health.

What happened and why it matters

The recall covers specific long‑acting Inderal (propranolol) lots because lab tests showed higher than acceptable amounts of nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are chemical impurities that can form during manufacturing. Some nitrosamines are linked to cancer risk when people are exposed to them over long periods. Regulators act conservatively: when levels exceed safety limits, products can be recalled even if short‑term risk is low.

What you should do right now

First, don’t panic and don’t stop your medicine without talking to a clinician. Stopping beta blockers suddenly can cause rebound high blood pressure, fast heart rate, or other problems. Call your prescribing doctor or pharmacist, tell them the brand, strength, and lot number if you have it, and ask whether you should switch immediately or keep taking your current supply until a safe alternative is arranged.

If your supply is from a recalled lot, your doctor will recommend a substitute or a taper plan if needed. Pharmacies can check lot numbers and may offer a replacement product. If you can’t reach your prescriber quickly and you feel unwell, seek medical care or call your local health line.

Check the official recall notice from Health Canada and Pfizer’s customer support for details on lot numbers, return instructions, and refunds. Keep the original packaging or a photo of the bottle—this helps the pharmacy verify the lot.

For people outside Canada: even if this recall is local, manufacturers sometimes expand recalls once problems are confirmed. Contact your local health authority or pharmacy to confirm whether the same lots or formulations are affected where you live.

Want to reduce risk? Don’t try to flush unused pills down the toilet. Ask your pharmacy about safe disposal or take‑back programs. If you’re tracking side effects or new symptoms after a medication change, write them down and report them to your healthcare team.

This recall is part of broader quality checks many regulators and manufacturers now run to catch nitrosamine impurities early. Testing and recalls help make drugs safer, but they can be disruptive. Stay informed by checking trusted sources, keep communication open with providers, and follow their guidance for switching medicines.

If you need help finding alternatives or explaining the recall to a family member, save this page or print the official recall notice and bring it to your next appointment. Your doctor or pharmacist can give you the safest next step based on your health history and why you were prescribed Inderal.