Sanofi to conduct precautionary voluntary recall of Zantac OTC in Canada and the U.S.

LAVAL, QC, Oct. 18, 2019 /CNW Telbec/ - As a precautionary measure, Sanofi will conduct a voluntary recall of Zantac OTC (over-the-counter) in Canada and the U.S. This recall is being taken due to possible contamination with a nitrosamine impurity called N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and will be initiated, in Canada, at the pharmacy and retail store level.

On September 13, 2019, Health Canada and the U.S Food and Drug Administration issued public statements alerting that some ranitidine medicines, including Zantac OTC, could contain NDMA at low levels and asked manufacturers to conduct testing. 

Evaluations are ongoing on both drug substance (active ingredient) and finished drug product. Due to inconsistencies in preliminary test results of the active ingredient used in U.S. and Canadian products, Sanofi has made the decision to conduct the voluntary recall in Canada and the U.S. as the investigation continues.  

Active ingredients used in Sanofi's ranitidine products outside Canada and the U.S. are sourced from different suppliers. Sanofi is committed to transparency and will continue to communicate results with health authorities from the ongoing testing, and work with them to make informed decisions based on available data and evidence. 

Sanofi encourages anyone using Zantac OTC to speak with their health care providers or pharmacist if they have any additional questions.

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With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe. Sanofi entities in Canada employ more than 2,000 people. In 2018, we invested $127.4 million in R&D in Canada, creating jobs, business and opportunity throughout the country.

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SOURCE Sanofi-Aventis Canada Inc.