Safety Report: Topotecan Injection 4 mg/4 mL (1 mg/mL) - recalled due to particulate matter, USA

United States

Company name: Teva Pharmaceuticals
Brand name: Teva
Product recalled: Topotecan Injection 4 mg/4 mL (1 mg/mL)
Reason of the recall: Presence of particulate matter
FDA Recall date: July 01, 2021
Recall details: Teva Pharmaceuticals has initiated a voluntary recall of lot 31328962B of Topotecan Injection 4 mg/4 mL (1 mg/mL), to the retail/institutional level in the United States. This voluntary recall was initiated based on a complaint received from a pharmacy after a single glass particle was observed inside one vial. After further examination of the complaint sample, two other particulates were found and identified as one (1) grey silicone particle and one (1) translucent, colorless cotton fiber.

The administration of an injectable product that contains particulate matter may result in local irritation or swelling in response to the foreign material. If the particulate matter reaches the blood vessels it can travel to various organs and block blood vessels in the heart, lungs or brain which can cause stroke and even lead to death. While the health hazard risk could be severe if particulate matter is infused, Teva’s internal health assessment determined that the likelihood of patient exposure to impacted product is remote or unlikely.

To date, Teva has received no further complaints or reports of illness or injury.

- Carton NDC: 0703-4714. Vial NDC: 0703-4714-71. Lot# 31328962B. Exp. Date: 04/2022

Topotecan Injection, as a single agent, is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic ovarian cancer after disease progression on or after initial or subsequent chemotherapy and for patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) platinum-sensitive disease who progressed at least 60 days after initiation of first-line chemotherapy. It is also indicated for treatment of patients with Stage IV-B, recurrent, or persistent cervical cancer which is not amenable to curative treatment, in combination with cisplatin. It is packaged in 4 mg/4 mL single use vials. The affected product information is listed in the table above. Teva distributed the product nationwide to six of its Wholesale customers.

Teva notified its customers on June 18th 2021 and asked that the lot be recalled and to make arrangements for impacted product to be returned. Any consumer who has questions or concerns should first consult with their health care provider(s).

Check the full recall details on www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/teva-initiates-voluntary-nationwide-recall-one-lot-topotecan-injection-4-mg4-ml-1-mgml-due-presence

Source: FDA