Government warns of antidepressant recall due to package error

Amarox Limited is recalling the batch after a patient received a pack of Sertraline 100mg tablets that contained one blister strip of Citalopram 40mg tablets by mistake.

Both medicines are SSRIs used to treat depression and anxiety, but taking the wrong drug could cause unexpected side effects.

Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), said: “If you have been prescribed Sertraline 100mg tablets and have received batch number V2500425, please check the carton contains the right medication.

(Image: Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency)

“You can find the batch number and expiry date printed on the side of the outer packaging.

“If the blister strips inside the carton are labelled Citalopram 40mg, please contact your pharmacy as soon as possible.

“If they are labelled Sertraline 100mg, no further action is needed.

“Patients who have accidentally taken citalopram instead of – or as well as – sertraline, may experience some heightened serotonergic side effects.

“These can include nausea, headache, sleep changes, and mild anxiety.”

Both SSRI medications are produced by the same manufacturer, at the same site, and the error appears to have occurred during secondary packaging of the blister strips into the cartons.

The MHRA is urging pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to identify patients who may have received the affected batch and contact them.

Those identified should be advised to return any remaining medication and consult their GP or clinician to discuss whether a new prescription is needed.

Doctors may also need to monitor patients, especially those under 18, over 65, or with existing heart or liver issues.

Adverse reactions should be reported through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Healthcare professionals have been instructed to stop supplying the affected batch and return all remaining stock to their suppliers.