The FDA has announced a voluntary recall of a single lot of morphine sulfate 60 mg extended release tablets by Ethex Corporation. Lot No. 91762, distributed between April 16th and April 27th of 2008, contained at least one over-sized tablet that might contain up to twice the amount of morphine.
While no reports of serious effects from Ethex morphine tablets have been reported, the opioid medicines are being recalled to prevent life-threatening overdoses.
Extended release morphine is often used to manage cancer pain, particularly in patients with advanced disease. Since many of these patients are already weak, it might be difficult for them to recognize an over-sized pill.
Signs of morphine overdose include difficulty breathing and low blood pressure. If you suspect an overdose contact your doctor immediately or call 911.
Patients or caregivers with questions about the recall should
- Contact their doctor or pharmacist
- Call ETHEX Customer Service at 1-800-321-1705
- Email customer-service@ethex.com
Ethex representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm CST.
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