A popular antidepressant is being recalled because they may contain high levels of a cancer-causing compound.
The New-Jersey based drug company Breckenridge Pharmaceuticals is recalling bottles of the prescription drug duloxetine, a generic version of Cymbalta. The medication is used to treat depression, anxiety and fibromyalgia, according to Mayo Clinic.
According to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration enforcement report, testing of the delayed-release capsules found levels of “N-nitroso-duloxetine” above the FDA’s recommended limit.
The recall involves specific lots of duloxetine delayed-release capsules distributed nationwide.
The 30mg capsules recalled have an expiration date of April 2027 and Lot code 241180C, according to the FDA.
Breckenridge is also recalling two lots of 60mg capsules, according to a separate notice published by the California Board of Pharmacy. Those are February 2026 with the lot number 230286C and February 2027 with the lot number 24072lC.
Patients that have any of these recalled medications are advised to contact their doctor or pharmacist about next steps. Health officials also advised that patients do not stop taking the medication without speaking to their doctor first.
Nitrosamines are compounds that can form during the manufacturing, storage or packaging of certain medications, according to the FDA. Nitrosamine impurities may increase the risk of cancer if people are exposed to them above acceptable levels over long periods of time.
