# Major Recall Alert: ASA 81mg, Enteric Coated Daily Low Dose ASA 81mg, RIVASA 81mg EC Recalled Due to Impurity Issues
Health Canada has issued a significant recall affecting several brands of daily low-dose ASA 81mg products, including Compliments, Equate, Kirkland, RIVA, and Stanley. The recall, announced on August 6, 2023, involves specific lots of these medications due to the impurity *free salicylic acid* being out of specification. These products are commonly used to reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes, making this recall particularly concerning for millions of Canadians who depend on them for daily health management.
If you currently use these products, here’s everything you need to know, along with immediate steps you should take to protect your health.
## Why This Recall is Important
Low-dose ASA (acetylsalicylic acid), commonly referred to as aspirin, is widely used for cardiovascular health. When impurities like *free salicylic acid* exceed acceptable limits, they may pose potential risks, including irritation to the stomach lining or compromised product safety.
This recall is particularly urgent because these medications are taken daily by individuals who rely on their effectiveness in preventing life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. Using potentially out-of-specification products could result in adverse health outcomes or negate the desired therapeutic effect.
Health Canada’s intervention underscores the importance of vigilance in ensuring medication quality and safety.
## Details of the Recall
The recall involves some of Canada’s most recognized over-the-counter brands of low-dose ASA 81mg. Below are the key details:
- **Category:** Over-the-counter medications (heart health)
- **Impacted Brands:**
- Compliments
- Equate
- Kirkland
- RIVA
- Stanley
- **Recalled Products:**
- ASA 81mg
- Enteric Coated Daily Low Dose ASA 81mg
- RIVASA 81mg EC
- **Issue:** Impurity *free salicylic acid* may exceed acceptable levels in specific lots. This impurity could make the product non-compliant with regulatory safety standards.
- **Announcement Date:** August 6, 2023
- **Official Source:** [Recalls and Safety Alerts – Health Canada](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/enteric-coated-daily-low-dose-asa-81mg-free-salicylic-acid-can-be-out-specification)
The affected brands are widely sold at major retailers, pharmacies, and online platforms, meaning this recall could impact a broad range of consumers.
## What You Should Do
If you have purchased any of the recalled products, here are your next steps:
- **Check Lot Numbers:** Look for batch or lot numbers on your product packaging and cross-reference them with the recall notice on the [official Health Canada website](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/enteric-coated-daily-low-dose-asa-81mg-free-salicylic-acid-can-be-out-specification).
- **Stop Use Immediately:** Discontinue using the product if it matches the affected lots to avoid potential side effects or damage.
- **Return to Retailer:** Return the product to the place of purchase for a refund or replacement as advised in the recall notice.
- **Consult Your Doctor:** If you experience any adverse effects or require alternative treatment, speak with your healthcare provider immediately.
- **Report Health Issues:** Any adverse reactions can be reported to Health Canada for further investigation.
## Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
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For more details, visit the official Health Canada recall notice [here](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/enteric-coated-daily-low-dose-asa-81mg-free-salicylic-acid-can-be-out-specification).