Two leukemia drugs, methotrexate and cytarabin hydrochloride, have been recalled by China’s State Food and Drug Administration and Health Ministry, because of possible unexpected adverse effects. The drugs, used for the treatment of leukemia, were causing, among other problems, leg pains.
According to sources in China, most of the recalled drugs, manufactured by Shanghai Hualian Pharmaceutical Co., have been retrieved. We do not yet know whether any of them were exported out of the country.
Authorities in China say they were receiving reports that the said drugs were causing children to have difficulties walking, as well as causing them to have leg pains.
In July 2007, China’s chief drug regulator was executed after he was convicted of taking bribes. He was also accused of approving drugs which lead to the deaths of ten people.
Written by: Christian Nordqvist