Health Canada has issued an urgent nationwide recall for specific lots of blood pressure medication as of 08 February 2026, following reports of a dangerous packaging mix-up that could lead to severe health complications.
The primary alert concerns MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets. Health Canada confirmed that two specific lots were found to contain Midodrine, a medication used to treat low blood pressure, instead of the intended amlodipine. Taking Midodrine inadvertently can cause a sudden, dangerous spike in blood pressure, while missing a scheduled dose of amlodipine may leave a patient’s hypertension uncontrolled.
Current Recalls and Safety Alerts
Several cardiovascular medications are currently under scrutiny or active recall across Canada and North America:
- MAR-Amlodipine (5 mg): Recalled due to the presence of Midodrine tablets in amlodipine bottles.
- Bisoprolol Fumarate: Recent enforcement reports (30 January 2026) indicate recalls for 100-count bottles of 2.5 mg tablets due to potential cross-contamination.
- Ramipril: Multiple batches are under scrutiny in international markets with warnings extending to Canadian distributors regarding potential impurities.
- Ziac (Bisoprolol Fumarate/Hydrochlorothiazide): Over 11,000 bottles recalled by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals due to cross-contamination risks.
Updated Hypertension Guidelines (2025-2026)
This wave of recalls arrives as Canadians adjust to the 2025 Hypertension Canada Guidelines. Under these updated standards, the threshold for a high blood pressure diagnosis has been tightened to consistently being at or above 130/80 mmHg. The guidelines emphasize:
- A target systolic blood pressure of < 130 mm Hg for most adults.
- Annual reviews of medication, lifestyle behaviours, and organ damage markers.
- The use of automated office blood pressure (AOBP) measurements to ensure accuracy.
Guidance for Patients
If you believe your medication is affected by these recalls, Health Canada and the Heart and Stroke Foundation advise the following:
- Check Your Bottle: Verify the DIN (Drug Identification Number) and lot number against the official Health Canada Recalls and Safety Alerts database.
- Consult Your Pharmacist: Do not stop taking your medication abruptly, as this can cause “rebound hypertension.” Speak with a pharmacist to arrange for a safe replacement.
- Monitor Symptoms: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience unusual dizziness, severe headaches, or palpitations after taking a new refill.
- Report Adverse Reactions: Hospitals and patients are encouraged to report serious adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to Health Canada within 30 days of the event.