Major Blood Pressure Medication Recalled Over Potential Cancer-Causing Chemical

October 31, 2025

In a significant nationwide recall in US, drugmakers have pulled more than 580,000 bottles of the blood pressure medication prazosin hydrochloride from the market. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the recall due to concerns that the capsules may contain a cancer-causing chemical.

The voluntary recall was issued earlier this month by New Jersey-based Teva Pharmaceuticals USA and drug distributor Amerisource Health Services. It affects prazosin hydrochloride capsules across three dosage strengths: 1 mg, 2 mg, and 5 mg. According to the FDA's enforcement reports, the specific breakdown includes:

• 181,659 bottles of 1 mg capsules

• 291,512 bottles of 2 mg capsules

• 107,673 bottles of 5 mg capsules

The FDA has classified this as a Class II recall, indicating that while use of the affected product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health effects, the probability of serious health consequences is considered remote. The concern stems from potential nitrosamine impurities, specifically "N-nitroso Prazosin impurity C," which the agency identifies as potentially cancer-causing chemicals that can form during a drug's manufacturing process or storage.

Prazosin hydrochloride works by relaxing blood vessels to help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Beyond its primary use for hypertension, the medication is also commonly prescribed to treat nightmares and other sleep disturbances in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), according to the National Institutes of Health.

The FDA's announcement did not include specific instructions for patients currently taking the medication. Consumers with questions or concerns about the recall are advised to consult the FDA website for additional information and guidance. As of the recall announcement, Teva Pharmaceuticals had not responded to media requests for comment regarding the situation.

Patients using prazosin hydrochloride capsules are encouraged to consult with their healthcare providers about alternative treatment options and should not discontinue medication without professional medical advice.

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Sources:
FDA:
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/ires/?Product=216677
https://www.fda.gov/regulatory-information/search-fda-guidance-documents/control-nitrosamine-impurities-human-drugs