October 28, 2010 - Health Canada is informing Canadians that Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. is voluntarily recalling one lot of the GlucaGen Hypokit after a quality issue was identified that may affect a small number of kits in the affected lot. This recall is in addition to the two lots recalled in August due to a separate manufacturing concern.
GlucaGen Hypokits are an injection kit used in emergency situations to treat severe low blood-sugar reactions in insulin-dependant diabetic patients who are unconscious and therefore unable to take sugar by mouth.
In the affected lot, some of the glass vials, which contain the active ingredient glucagon, have been found to be cracked or broken. Use of a cracked vial may result in glucagon fluid leakage and may make the product unusable, which could result in treatment delays if no back-up kit is readily available, and potential health risks.
Canadians with questions or concerns about these products should speak to a physician or pharmacist, or contact Novo Nordisk Canada Inc. at 1-800-465-4334.
Canadians are also reminded of the importance of visually inspecting their GlucaGen Hypokits before use.
Consumers and health professionals wanting more information about this advisory from Health Canada can contact the Public Enquiries Line at 613-957-2991, or toll free at 1-866-225-0709.
