Editor's note: This post was originally published on July 14, 2020, and has been updated for accuracy and relevance.

Drug recalls can be difficult to track because the same medication may be made by multiple manufacturers, recalls may be issued after a drug has been used, and some recall information may not receive broad public attention. Patients who take prescription or over-the-counter medications should watch for recalls affecting the specific products they use.

When you are prescribed medication or use an over-the-counter drug, you expect it to be safe for consumption. Unfortunately, drug recalls are not uncommon. While some recalls may not pose a serious risk of consumer harm, others can cause severe injuries or even death.

It is important to keep an eye on drug recalls that could affect medications you or a loved one take.

How Can You Tell Whether a Drug Recall Affects Your Medication?

To determine whether a drug recall affects you, check the medication’s manufacturer, product name, dosage, lot number, and expiration date against the recall notice. A recall often applies only to specific products or batches, not every version of the medication.

Common medications, including ibuprofen and acetaminophen, may be manufactured by several companies. A recall might impact only one manufacturer or a limited number of product lots.

Before assuming you are affected, review:

• The name of the medication
• The manufacturer listed on the packaging
• The dosage or strength
• The lot number and expiration date
• The details included in the recall notice 

What Happens If a Drug Is Recalled After You Have Taken It?

If a drug is recalled after you have already taken it, you may be at risk of experiencing health effects connected to the reason for the recall. Depending on the circumstances, you may need medical evaluation, monitoring, or additional treatment that would not otherwise have been necessary.

A recall issued after consumption can leave patients with unexpected medical expenses and uncertainty about their health. Keep the medication packaging, prescription information, receipts, and records of any symptoms or treatment you receive.

Where Can You Find Information About a Drug Recall?

You may find drug recall information through FDA notices, the drug manufacturer, your pharmacy, or your healthcare provider. However, not every recall receives widespread public attention, so contacting the manufacturer or pharmacy directly may be necessary if you have concerns about a medication.

Pharmacies and healthcare professionals may have information about recalls that is not widely publicized. If you believe a medication may be recalled, ask whether you should stop taking it, return it, or discuss alternative treatment options with your healthcare provider.

Can You Seek Compensation for Injuries Caused by a Recalled Drug?

You may have the option to seek compensation if a recalled drug caused you harm. Depending on the facts of your case, compensation may help cover medical care, related expenses, lost income, and other damages connected to the injury.

If you suffered harm after taking a recalled medication, an experienced attorney can review the circumstances and help you understand your legal options. Contact MGM Injury Attorneys to discuss your potential claim.