Now Reading: IARC classifies three essential medicines as carcinogenic
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IARC classifies three essential medicines as carcinogenic
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified hydrochlorothiazide, voriconazole and tacrolimus as Group 1 carcinogens. The medicines treat hypertension, serious fungal infections and organ transplant rejection, and are listed on…
The Story in Brief
The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified hydrochlorothiazide, voriconazole and tacrolimus as Group 1 carcinogens. The medicines treat hypertension, serious fungal infections and organ transplant rejection, and are listed on the WHO Model List of Essential Medicines. Millions of people use them worldwide, including in India.
IARC’s classification identifies whether an agent can cause cancer under certain conditions, but does not measure the real-world risk at prescribed doses. Hydrochlorothiazide and voriconazole have been linked to skin cancers, while tacrolimus has been linked to lymphoma-related disorders. Doctors advise patients not to stop treatment without medical guidance. Sun protection and skin checks are recommended for people taking the first two drugs.
The Indian Opinion
The lazy headline that these medicines are simply “unsafe” ignores why doctors prescribe them, while the opposite claim that the warning changes nothing is also careless. The real concern is prolonged or inappropriate use, UV exposure with some drugs, and monitoring after transplants. Patients should seek a medication review, not abandon treatment. Better prescribing and follow-up will matter more than panic. How many avoidable skin cancers or transplant complications are recorded among long-term users?
Sources (2): thehindu.com, thehindu.com (2)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
