# Major Recall Alert: MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg Recalled Due to Drug Mislabeling Risk
Marcan Pharmaceuticals Inc. has issued a significant recall of two lots of their MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets. The recall was prompted after it was discovered that some bottles may mistakenly contain midodrine 2.5 mg tablets instead of the prescribed medication. This mix-up poses serious health risks for patients, as MAR-Amlodipine is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain, while midodrine is used to treat low blood pressure. Substituting these medications can result in dangerous side effects, making it crucial for consumers to take immediate action.
## Why This Recall Is Important
Medication errors can have life-threatening consequences, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Here's why this recall is particularly concerning:
- **MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg**: Used to manage high blood pressure and angina (chest pain) in adults and children 6 years or older.
- Tablets are **white to off-white, flat, and eight-sided** with a line across the middle. The number **“210” and “5”** is printed on one side, while the other side is blank.
- **Midodrine 2.5 mg tablets**: Designed to treat low blood pressure.
- Tablets are **white, round, with “M2” etched on one side**, and have a line across the middle on the other.
If patients inadvertently take midodrine instead of amlodipine, they may experience:
- **Severely elevated blood pressure**, which can lead to organ damage if untreated.
- Other potential symptoms, including **dizziness, fainting**, and heart complications.
- Specific risks for individuals with conditions like pheochromocytoma, glaucoma, or hyperthyroidism.
Children are especially at risk due to their smaller body size, which increases the likelihood of severe side effects from a medication error.
### Details of the Recall
Here’s what you need to know about this recall:
- **Category**: Pharmaceutical – Medication Mislabeling
- **Recalled Product**: MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets
- **Reason for Recall**: Some bottles may contain midodrine 2.5 mg tablets instead of amlodipine.
- **Health Risks**: Dangerous increases in blood pressure, potential organ damage, and severe side effects, especially in vulnerable populations like children or patients with pre-existing medical conditions.
- **Affected Lots**: Details about specific lot numbers should be checked via the official [Health Canada recall notice](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/two-lots-mar-amlodipine-5-mg-tablets-recalled-some-bottles-may-contain-wrong-drug).
Health Canada is actively monitoring this recall and has instructed Marcan Pharmaceuticals Inc. to implement corrective measures to prevent such incidents from happening again.
### What You Should Do
If you have MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets in your possession, take these steps to protect yourself:
- **Check your medication**: Compare your tablets to the descriptions above. If the markings or shape don’t match the amlodipine tablets, stop using them immediately.
- **Contact your doctor**: Inform them of the situation, especially if you’ve already taken the medication. They can assess your condition and make appropriate recommendations.
- **Return the product**: Bring the affected product back to your pharmacy or the point of purchase for proper disposal and replacement.
- **Report adverse effects**: If you or a loved one experiences side effects after taking the wrong medication, report it to Health Canada via their [MedEffect page](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en).
### Stay Safe – Get Instant Recall Alerts
Medication safety is vital. To stay informed about recalls like this one, consider downloading an app that provides real-time updates on product recalls. By staying aware, you can take swift action to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.
This recall serves as an important reminder to always double-check your medications, especially when dealing with life-saving prescriptions. For more details about this recall and ongoing updates, visit the official [Health Canada Recall Notice](https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/en/alert-recall/two-lots-mar-amlodipine-5-mg-tablets-recalled-some-bottles-may-contain-wrong-drug).
**Your safety matters. Don’t wait—act today to avoid potential health risks.** Stay informed, stay safe.