Yesterday we reported that Pfizer had initiated a recall on close to 200,000 bottles of their Lipitor drug. The drug which is the number one selling pharmaceutical in the world, with over $12 billion in sales last year alone, is used to lower blood cholesterol.

The recalled was initiated because of a musty smell coming from some of the bottles in which the Lipitor comes in. This morning the Food and Drug Administration put out a list of frequently asked questions regarding this latest recall. They are as follows:

Why was LIPITOR recalled?
Pfizer has recalled specific “lots” or batches of LIPITOR (40 mg only) due to a small number of reports of an uncharacteristic odor related to the bottles in which the product is packaged. Pfizer is working closely with the bottle supplier to determine the cause of the odor problem and to rapidly address it.

Where can people go for more information about the recall?
If you have any questions about the recall please call 1-888-LIPITOR. If you have specific questions about your medication, you may also call your doctor or pharmacist.

I take LIPITOR. What should I do?
Pfizer recalled only specific bottles of LIPITOR 40 mg due to a small number of reports of an uncharacteristic odor and a medical assessment has determined that the odor is not likely to cause adverse health consequences in patients taking LIPITOR. Medication should always be taken as prescribed by a doctor. If you take LIPITOR 40 mg and experience an uncharacteristic odor associated with your medication, please return the tablets to your pharmacist.

If you take LIPITOR and experience an odd smell or odor, what should you do?
Pfizer recalled only specific bottles of LIPITOR 40 mg due to a small number of reports of an uncharacteristic odor and a medical assessment has determined that the odor is not likely to cause adverse health consequences in patients taking LIPITOR. If you take LIPITOR 40 mg and experience an uncharacteristic odor associated with your medication, please return the tablets to your pharmacist. If you have any concerns, call your doctor or pharmacist or call 1-888-LIPITOR if you need any further information.

Is it still safe to take LIPITOR?
Pfizer has recalled only specific bottles of LIPITOR 40 mg due to a small number of reports of an uncharacteristic odor related to the bottles in which LIPITOR is packaged. A medical assessment has determined the odor is not likely to cause adverse health consequences in patients taking LIPITOR. Pfizer remains confident in the safety and efficacy of LIPITOR.

Will there be a LIPITOR 40 mg shortage as a result of the recall?
Pfizer has taken a number of steps to ensure that there is no shortage of LIPITOR 40 mg as a result of this recall.

Can I get a refund if I take LIPITOR 40 mg?
Pfizer has recalled only specific bottles of LIPITOR 40 mg. Please speak to your pharmacist about refund policies. Pfizer is not offering a refund.

Pfizer is urging anyone who takes the 40 mg Lipitor to return the bottle to the store it was purchased at only if you notice a musty odor coming from it. Anyone who doesn’t notice any odor, should continue taking the drug as prescribed. For questions related to this drug recall, you can call Pfizer at, 1-888-LIPITOR.