Popular Antidepressant Recalled for High Levels of Cancer-Causing Chemical

Breckenridge Pharmaceuticals is recalling nearly 370,000 bottles of the common antidepressant Cymbalta (duloxetine) and its generic forms due to elevated levels of N-nitroso-duloxetine, a potential carcinogen.

About the Cymbalta Recall

According to ABC News, the nationwide recall covers both the 30mg and 60mg versions of the duloxetine delayed-response capsules. Duloxetine – best known by its brand name Cymbalta – is a commonly prescribed SNRI used to treat depression, anxiety, and some forms of chronic pain.

Recall documents cite an elevated presence of N-nitroso-duloxetine, a class of organic compounds that can occur when nitrates (which are sometimes used as preservatives) react with amines. N-nitroso-duloxetine is recognized as a probable human carcinogen at elevated levels.

This is a Class II recall, meaning exposure to contaminated batches may cause temporary or medically adverse health consequences.

Patients taking Cymbalta are urged to check their medication to see if they are listed among affected lot numbers. They may also contact their pharmacist for assistance.

Additionally, because of possible adverse effects associated with the sudden cessation of taking antidepressants, patients should not stop taking their mediation without first consulting with their doctor.

Medications Included in the Antidepressant Recall

Among the products covered by the recall are:

• 30mg capsules(NDC 51991-747-10): Lot 241180C, expiring April 2027. 
  • Packaged in 1,000-capsule bottles. About 14,729 bottles affected.
• 60mg capsules: Packaged in both 90-count (NDC 51991-748-90) and 1,000-count (NDC 51991-748-10) bottles. 
  • Multiple lots are affected, with expiration dates ranging from November 2026 through May 2027. About 359,676 bottles affected.

Recalled pills were manufactured by Towa Pharmaceutical Europe and were distributed by Breckenridge Pharmaceuticals.

Contact an Experienced Drug Side-Effect Attorney

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a dangerous pharmaceutical drug or medical device, you may be entitled to compensation. You deserve dynamic representation from a law firm with the resources necessary to take on the pharmaceutical companies. Thomas J. Henry has a track record of helping clients receive record-breaking verdicts, settlements, and judgments.

Our firm has offices in San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Houston, and Corpus Christi, serving clients across Texas and nationwide. Call us today for a free case review — attorneys are available 24/7, nights and weekends.