Thousands of patients in the UK who take lercanidipine for high blood pressure are being advised to check their medication after a labelling error prompted a product recall. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced that one batch of the drug, manufactured by Recordati Pharmaceuticals, has been mislabelled. The packaging incorrectly states that the tablets are 10mg, when they in fact contain 20mg of the active ingredient.
The affected batch—number MD4L07—was first distributed on 10 April 2025 and has an expiry date of January 2028. Over 7,700 packs have already been distributed. According to the MHRA, the correct dosage is clearly printed on the blister strips inside the packs, and in some cases, also appears on the side of the box. However, the incorrect strength is printed on the front of the packaging, creating the potential for patients to unknowingly take double the prescribed dose.
Taking too much lercanidipine can cause dizziness, fatigue, and drowsiness. The NHS warns that an overdose may impact blood pressure levels dangerously. Patients who are prescribed 10mg tablets and find they have received medication from the affected batch are being urged to seek medical advice immediately by contacting their GP, pharmacist, or NHS 111. If medical advice is unavailable, the MHRA suggests taking half of a 20mg tablet as a temporary measure, though only after verifying the blister strip labelling.
Those who have been prescribed 20mg tablets should still check their medication to confirm the strength on the blister strips before continuing treatment. Healthcare professionals are being advised to remove and return all stock from the affected batch to prevent further distribution.
Dr Alison Cave, the MHRA’s chief safety officer, emphasized that pharmacists and other healthcare providers play a key role in ensuring that affected medication is not supplied. She also reminded patients and healthcare professionals to report any side effects or issues through the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.
Recordati Pharmaceuticals has acknowledged the error and stated it is working with the MHRA to notify affected customers and address the root cause. The company emphasized that patient safety remains its top priority and that it is taking steps to minimize any potential disruption. Lercanidipine is one of four main types of blood pressure medications and is classified as a calcium channel blocker, which helps lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and easing the heart’s workload.
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