Able Laboratories recalls generic drugs

WASHINGTON – People taking generic drugs made by Able Laboratories Inc. should seek replacements because the company has recalled all of its products, the Food and Drug Administration said Friday.

However, the FDA advised people to keep taking the drugs until they talk to their doctor or pharmacist. Able recalled three medicines earlier this year and sought the return of the rest of its products last week after an internal investigation found problems with its testing procedures. The Cranbury, N.J.-based maker of generic medicines also withdrew seven drug applications that had been pending with FDA.

Able makes generic versions of the attention-deficit disorder drug Ritalin and the painkiller Vicodin. It also makes nitroglycerin, lithium and generic Tylenol.

The FDA posted a full listing of the recalled drugs on its Web site, www.fda.gov.

Consumers also may call the FDA for more information at (888) 463-6332.