What to do if your medications are recalled

Just like child safety seats or automobile parts, medications also can be recalled.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issues these consumer product recalls when problems are reported with a particular medication or class of medications. If there's a recall of a drug you're taking, here's what to do:

• Call your doctor or pharmacist. Don't stop taking a medication without talking with a health care professional. The consequences of going without a medication can be far worse than any potential short-term harm related to the cause of the recall.
• Know the lot number. Each medication, whether in a bottle, box or tube, typically has an important identifier called a lot number. Drug recalls usually refer a specific lot, or batch — not a medication in general.

You can typically find this number near the expiration date. Your pharmacist can help you find it, too.

• Dispose of a recalled drug safely. Don't throw recalled drugs in the garbage or flush them down the toilet. The FDA or manufacturer may have specific instructions to guard against further contamination.

Not sure if a medication has been recalled? You can find an up-to-date listing of recalls and problems on the FDA's website.