Pulled From Shelves: Heart Risk Medications Prompt Global Health Alert

• Sudden chest pain or tightness
• Shortness of breath that feels unusual or alarming
• Unexplained swelling, especially in one leg or arm
• Severe headaches or blurred vision
• Fast or irregular heartbeat

Even if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are serious, it’s always better to be cautious. A quick decision could be life-saving.

What Should You Do If You’re Taking One of These Medications?

First and foremost—don’t panic, and don’t stop your medication without speaking to your doctor.

While the risks are serious, they are often rare, and stopping a medication abruptly can sometimes do more harm than good. Here’s what to do:

• Schedule a medication review with your doctor or pharmacist. They can assess your personal risk and explore safer alternatives if necessary.
• Stay updated through trusted sources such as the FDA, CDC, or your local health department. Avoid online rumors or unverified claims.
• Report any side effects to the FDA’s MedWatch system or your country’s equivalent. These reports help regulators track patterns and act quickly.
• Talk to family members about your medications and symptoms, especially if you live alone. It’s helpful to have someone else who can act if you can’t.

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