Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories issues nationwide recall of antihistamine tablets due to potential cross-contamination with ranitidine.

Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories has initiated a voluntary nationwide recall of four lots of 5-milligram cetirizine hydrochloride tablets. The medication, a common over-the-counter antihistamine used to treat seasonal allergies and hives, may have been cross-contaminated with ranitidine, a drug used to treat heartburn and acid indigestion. The issue was identified by a pharmacy technician who noticed red dots and discoloration on the tablets during dispensing. While most consumers may not experience significant issues, those with a hypersensitivity to ranitidine could suffer "serious adverse events." These life-threatening reactions, known as anaphylaxis, may include low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat or face, hives, and loss of consciousness. The affected tablets are sold in 100-count bottles with the National Drug Code 16571-401-10. Unique Pharmaceutical Laboratories notified its distributor, Rising Pharma Holdings Inc., which has alerted wholesalers and retailers. Although no adverse reactions have been reported yet, consumers are advised to contact their healthcare providers if they experience problems.

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