Metformin Extended-Release Formulation Recall

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Recently, on the recommendation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), five manufacturers issued recalls for certain extended-release (ER) metformin formulations. Metformin is prescribed to manage blood glucose levels for many people who have type 2 diabetes. This recall — and others — are part of the agency’s commitment to keeping the U.S. drug supply safe.

However, for plan members who use the metformin ER formulation to manage their condition – and for the plan sponsors – such recalls can be concerning. Members may worry about the safety of the medication they take or having ongoing access to treatments necessary to manage their condition. They may also be confused by the different types and levels of recalls, whether a recall affects their specific medication, and if so, what steps to take.

In this clinical update, Sree Chaguturu, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, CVS Caremark, and Arpana Mathur, M.D., Medical Director, CVS Health, explain what recalls are – including the types and levels of such occurrences – the role of the FDA in keeping the drug supply safe and what CVS Health does to support it, and what patients should do.

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