December 5, 2019
Drug Warning: Health Canada evaluating NDMA in metformin drugs

Health Canada is aware that some metformin products available outside Canada have been found to contain a nitrosamine impurity, N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), above the acceptable limit. Metformin is a prescription drug used to control high blood sugar in patients with type 2 diabetes.

At this time, Health Canada is not aware of any metformin products in Canada containing NDMA above acceptable levels. The Department has asked companies to test their metformin products and is collecting samples from companies to conduct its own testing. Health Canada is also working closely with international regulatory partners to inform its assessment of the issue and to determine whether any metformin product in Canada is affected. If a risk to Canadians is identified, the Department will take action as needed and inform Canadians.