MHRA: New batches of fake Lipitor found in UK

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has recalled batches of Lipitor with the serial number 067404K3 because they are counterfeit.

This latest recall of counterfeit versions of the best-selling Pfizer drug follows the withdrawal of batch 004405K1 last month, which was originally recalled in 2005 but has since returned to the market.

Although the counterfeit drugs are not thought to be harmful or toxic, the MHRA has said that patients should stop taking the affected Lipitor batches and return them in favour of a genuine batch. Patients should also consider seeing their doctor if they have any concerns, the agency said.

Danny-Lee Frost, head of enforcement at the MHRA, commented: “This incident highlights the importance of our ongoing surveillance activity which enables us to search for counterfeit medicines.”

“The testing of the counterfeit product indicates that there is no immediate risk to patients, but because it is a counterfeit we cannot guarantee its quality,” he added.

Pfizer has said that the “complex and fragmented” medicines distribution system in the UK has presented numerous opportunities to insert counterfeit drugs into the market, creating a Europe-wide problem. The company revealed that investigations into batch 004405K1 suggested it was part of a counterfeit batch seized in the Netherlands.

Julian Mount, senior director of European trade at Pfizer, remarked: “Pfizer is very concerned about the surge in counterfeit medicines, putting at risk the lives and wellbeing of patients in Europe and elsewhere.”

© Adfero Ltd