OTTAWA – Health Canada has issued an urgent nationwide recall for specific lots of the blood pressure medication MAR-Amlodipine following a critical packaging mix-up that could pose severe health risks to Canadian patients.
The recall, initiated by Marcan Pharmaceuticals Inc. on 07 February 2026, involves two lots of 5 mg tablets. According to federal health officials, some bottles may contain midodrine, a medication used to treat low blood pressure, instead of the prescribed amlodipine used for high blood pressure.
Critical Recall Details
Patients are advised to immediately check their prescription bottles for the following identification markers:
- Product Name: MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg
- DIN: 02371715
- Physical Description: Authentic MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg tablets are white to off-white, eight-sided (octagonal), and flat. They feature a score line across the middle, with “210” and “5” embossed on one side.
Health Risks and Warnings
Health Canada warns that the accidental substitution of amlodipine with midodrine is dangerous. While amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker designed to relax blood vessels and lower pressure, midodrine acts as a vasopressor to increase it. Taking the wrong medication could lead to:
- Dangerously high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Slowed heart rate (bradycardia)
- Complications for patients with underlying heart or kidney conditions
Guidance for Patients
If you suspect your medication is part of the affected lots, Health Canada recommends the following steps:
- Verify the Pill: Compare your tablets to the physical description provided above. If the pills do not match the octagonal, embossed description, do not consume them.
- Consult a Pharmacist: Contact your pharmacy immediately to arrange for a safe replacement. Do not stop taking blood pressure medication without consulting a healthcare professional, as sudden cessation can also cause health spikes.
- Monitor Symptoms: If you have already taken the incorrect medication and experience unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Amlodipine remains one of the most commonly prescribed treatments in Canada for hypertension and chronic stable angina. This recall is limited specifically to the MAR-Amlodipine 5 mg lots distributed by Marcan Pharmaceuticals and does not affect other brands or dosages of amlodipine at this time.
Report any adverse reactions or quality complaints to Health Canada’s Canada Vigilance Program.