Avet recalls tetracycline antibiotic capsules on low-potency fears

For patients taking generic antibiotics, adequate potency levels can mean the difference between a quick recovery and a trip to the hospital. But what happens if that potency isn’t up to snuff? Manufacturer Avet Pharmaceuticals doesn’t want to find out.

Avet has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of tetracycline antibiotic capsules marketed under the Heritage Pharmaceuticals brand because of low dissolution levels.

The recalled lots of 250- and 500-milligram capsules were distributed between August and March, the FDA said. So far, the drugmaker has not received any adverse event reports or complaints.

The FDA warned that low levels of dissolution in the body could limit the drug’s ability to fight off serious infections like pneumonia, potentially leading to progression of the infection or death.

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