Pfizer Recalls 3 Lots Of Effexor XR, Venlafaxine HCl Capsules

(RTTNews) - Pfizer Inc. (PFE) said Thursday that it is voluntarily recalling one lot of 30-count Effexor XR 150 mg extended-release capsules, one lot of 90-count Effexor XR 150 mg extended-release capsules and one lot of 90-count Greenstone LLC-branded Venlafaxine HCl 150 mg extended-release capsules because of a pharmacist report that one bottle of the company's Effexor XR contained one capsule of Tikosyn 0.25mg in addition to the Effexor XR capsules.

Pfizer said although it has not received any other such reports, the three lots are being voluntarily recalled as a precaution because they were packaged on the same line.

The use of Tikosyn by an Effexor XR/Venlafaxine HCl patient, where the contraindications and drug-drug interactions with Tikosyn have not been considered by the prescribing physician, could cause serious adverse health consequences that could be fatal.

Effexor XR is a prescription antidepressant indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Tikosyn is a Class III antiarrhythmic drug.

Tikosyn can cause serious side effects, including a type of abnormal heartbeat called Torsade de Pointes, which can lead to death.