What do I do if my medication is recalled?
Last updated September 3, 2026.
Do not stop cold - call your pharmacy first. For many medications, stopping abruptly is more dangerous than the reason for the recall. Recalls target specific lots, and the FDA posts every drug recall publicly. Match your bottle's lot number to the recall notice, and your pharmacy can confirm whether yours is affected and arrange a replacement.
What to do
- Find the notice. Check the FDA recall listing or the alert your pharmacy sent, and note the affected lot numbers and dates.
- Match your bottle. The lot number is printed on the label. Only matching lots are part of the recall.
- Call the pharmacy. They replace affected stock, usually at no charge, and can flag your prescriber if a switch is needed.
- Report any reaction. If you took recalled medication and feel unwell, contact your prescriber and file a report with FDA MedWatch.
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