DRUG RECALL: ZELNORM (TEGASEROD)

NOVARTIS, maker of Zelnorm (tegaserod) for irritable bowel syndrome and chronic constipation, has decided to stop its marketing and sales in Canada. Clinical studies indicated a statistically significant increase in the incidence of cardiovascular ischemic events (strokes and heart attacks), especially among those with risk factors of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, previous cardiovascular disease. Patients should stop using Zelnorm and contact their doctors for options. There are no known risks for abrupt discontinuation of Zelnorm. You should return any unused Zelnorm tablets to your pharmacy where your prescription was filled where you will be reimbursed the amount that you have paid.