Sandoz recalls some lots of generic Introvale due to packaging error

Sandoz, a division of Novartis, is voluntarily recalling 10 lots of its generic oral contraceptive Introvale (levonorgestrel and ethinyl estradiol) tablets in the United States, after a consumer reported a packaging flaw.

The lot numbers involved in the recall are as follows: LF00478C, LF00479C, LF00551C, LF00552C, LF00687C, LF00688C, LF00763C, LF00764C, LF00765C, and LF01261C. These lots were distributed only in the United States between January 2011 and May 2012.

Chris Lewis, Sandoz spokesperson, told Formulary that the package flaw “appears to be the result of potential human error during the packaging operation at a third-party supplier. We have taken appropriate steps to correct it.”

The recall was decided after a consumer reported that the white placebo tablets were mistakenly in the ninth row (labeled “Week 9”) of the 13-row blister card, rather than in the correct position in the 13th and final row (labeled “Week 13”). Each 3-month blister card contains 84 peach-colored active tablets and 7 white placebo tablets in 13 rows, each representing 1 week. While the white placebo tablets can be clearly distinguished from the peach-colored active tablets, the risk of an unintended pregnancy for a patient taking the wrong tablet over several days cannot be excluded.

In the unlikely event that a patient finds a white placebo tablet in any position other than the 13th and final row (Week 13), they should immediately begin using a non-hormonal form of contraception. They should also immediately contact their healthcare professional as well as Sandoz to report the finding via the Sandoz Drug Information Direct Line at (800) 525-2492, 24 hours/day, 7 days a week, or via email at qa.druginfo@sandoz.com

The probability of this packaging flaw causing serious adverse health consequences is remote, and Sandoz is not aware of any reports of related adverse events. This recall is being undertaken as a precautionary measure to minimize any potential of patients being impacted. The recall is being conducted with FDA’s knowledge.

Patients or their healthcare provider may also report adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax as indicated below:

• Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm

• Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available here. Mail to MedWatch 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 
20852-9787

• Fax: (800) FDA-0178