FDA is evaluating the root cause of benzene contamination in certain drugs and alerting drug manufacturers to the risk of benzene contamination from drug components and other potential risk factors. Benzene is a known human carcinogen that causes leukemia and other blood disorders. Certain hand sanitizers and aerosol drug products have been recalled due to benzene contamination. This contamination may be related to inactive ingredients such as carbomers (thickening agents), isobutane (a spray propellant), or other drug components made from hydrocarbons…
