Batch recall of two Apoamitriptyline tablet products due to presence of impurities
The Department of Health (DH) today (October 18) ordered a total of 14 lots of the following two products from Hind Wing, a licensed pharmaceutical wholesaler, as a precautionary measure due to the presence of impurities in the medicines: approved to be withdrawn from the market. product.
DH has issued a notice that the above batch of Apoamitriptyline tablets are being recalled because the overseas manufacturer of the product has exceeded or is likely to exceed permissible levels of the impurity N-nitrosonortriptyline (NNORT). received from Hind Wing. NNORT is classified as a possible human carcinogen based on laboratory test results. As a precautionary measure, Hind Wing is voluntarily recalling the affected batches of product from the market.
The products listed above containing amitriptyline are prescription medications used to treat depression. According to Hind Wing, the above products were imported to Hong Kong. Products from the affected batches were being supplied to DH clinics, pharmacies, private practices, private hospitals and re-exported to Macau.
Hind Wing has set up a hotline (2541 5731) to answer related inquiries.
“To date, DH has not received any reports of side effects related to the product. DH will closely monitor any recalls,” a DH spokesperson said.
“Patients taking the products listed above should not stop taking the medication, but should seek advice from their health care professional as soon as possible about appropriate arrangements,” the spokesperson added.
Batch recall of two Apoamitriptyline tablets due to presence of impurities Source: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Press Release
Batch recall of two Apoamitriptyline tablets due to presence of impurities Source: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Press Release
CHP announces one newly confirmed case of cannioidosis infection
The Ministry of Health’s Center for Health Protection (CHP) announced today (October 18) that one new case of melioidosis infection was confirmed between October 10 and 17.
The case involves a 59-year-old woman with underlying health conditions who lives in Sham Shui Po. She developed a fever and abdominal pain on October 5th and was admitted to Caritas Medical Center on October 7th, where her condition is stable. Her clinical samples were tested positive for Burkholderia pseudomallei.
CHP is investigating the source of infection in this case. Epidemiological investigation is ongoing. So far this year, 19 cases of melioidosis have been recorded in Hong Kong. In 2023, 17 cases of melioidosis infection were recorded.
A CHP spokesperson reiterated that while human-to-human and animal-to-human transmission is rare, variola can survive in the community environment. Melidosis is endemic in Hong Kong, and cases of meliidosis are recorded in Hong Kong every year. According to the literature, cases of infection are more common after typhoons and storms. The meliidosis bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, which is present in soil and muddy water, is exposed on the ground after typhoons and storms and can be spread more easily by strong winds and storms. Therefore, the number of meliidosis cases is likely to increase.
CHP reminded the public that dandruff can be spread by contaminated soil and water during and after typhoons and storms. Where practicable, people should stay indoors during typhoons and storms, avoid traveling to areas that may be flooded, and avoid entering or touching muddy water or dirt. Additionally, high-risk individuals should avoid routes near storm drains where aerosols can be generated from contaminated water.
The general public should also take the following infection prevention measures.
The CHP urged the public to seek medical advice if they develop symptoms, especially those with diabetes or other immunocompromised conditions, to receive proper medical diagnosis and treatment. For more information about myeloma, please visit the CHP website www.chp.gov.hk/en/healthtopics/content/24/101110.html.
