Eli Lilly Recalls Glucagon that May Fail to Treat Severe Hypoglycemia

Cancer Medicine Pepaxto Withdrawn from Market
October 22, 2021
FDA Approves First Ocular Drug Delivered by Suprachoroidal Injection
October 25, 2021
Cancer Medicine Pepaxto Withdrawn from Market
October 22, 2021
FDA Approves First Ocular Drug Delivered by Suprachoroidal Injection
October 25, 2021

September 25 – Eli Lilly has recalled one lot of Glucagon® Emergency Kit for Low Blood Sugar (Glucagon for Injection, 1mg per vial; Diluent for Glucagon, 1mL syringe).

  • There is no impact to members through Benecard Central Fill.
  • Glucagon is used to treat severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in patients who have diabetes.
  • Eli Lilly received a complaint that, instead of the intended powdered form of Glucagon, a vial contained liquid Glucagon. The patient experienced a lack of drug effect and subsequent seizures.
  • According to Eli Lilly, the problem with the Glucagon may be related to the manufacturing process and could cause affected medication to lose potency, leading to failed treatment of severe low blood sugar as reported in the product complaint.
  • Glucagon Emergency Kits included in the recall belong to Lot D239382D and have an expiration date of April 2022. Eli Lilly advises consumers in possession of the recalled kits to:
    • Contact the Lilly Answers Center at 1-800-LILLYRX (1-800-545-5979) for return and replacement instructions, and
    • Reach out to their healthcare provider for guidance as well as if they have experienced any issues that may be related to use of the recalled product.
  • A full copy of the recall notice is available on the U.S. FDA's website.