Pharmacist Sonja Keizers answers
Pharmacist Sonja Keizers answers questions about medicines. This time: is my medicine toxic?
I was told that the toxic substance NDMA was in my diabetes medication metformin (TEVA brand). How is that possible?
Answer:
Lately we have had to deal with it more often: contaminants in medicines. Chemicals, with abbreviations like NDMA or AZBT, have been found in a number of commonly used brands. These substances are potentially carcinogenic, which is why the drugs are being recalled. As annoying as it is, it does show that the control system is working. The contamination cannot always be prevented. They usually arise during the production of the drug. Small amounts of impurities are also formed during the chemical reactions. The permitted limit for this is very sharp, so that the health risk is minimal. Manufacturers have to test each batch themselves, but European inspections and research institutes also carry out checks. If the impurities are above the set limit, action is taken. When the drugs are already on the market, pharmacists must warn their patients and ask them to exchange the drugs. No fun for anyone, but necessary for safe use of medicines.
Also send in your medicine question. That’s possible here.
Sources):
- Plus Magazine