Los Angeles Injury Lawyer Blog

The drug Heparin, a blood thinner made by Baxter International, was recalled in February after it was shown to cause severe side effects and death potentially from contamination at its manufacturing site. As a result of the Baxter recall, Newsday is reporting that new Heparin dangers have arisen, including a shortage of the drug and a greater risk of heparin overdose due in part to new and unfamiliar packaging. Up to 81 people may have died as a result of receiving contaminated Heparin, which caused a severe allergic-type reaction. Additionally Heparin overdose caused injury and death, as similar packaging resulted in professionals administering incorrect dosages. For more information about Heparin, please see our Heparin webpage. If you or a loved one has suffered serious adverse effects or death as a result of Heparin in California, please call 1-800-ALAWPRO now to receive your free consultation.

Heparin works as an anti-clotting or blood thinning agent and is commonly administered; up to tens of millions times a year. When the dangers of Baxter Heparin were uncovered, a recall and suspension of manufacturing of the drug ensued. Due to heparin’s efficacy and relative inexpensiveness, it continues to be in demand, and new suppliers are rushing to meet the demand. Unfortunately, the demand may not be fully met, and as a result, many hospitals and healthcare facilities are stocking up in preparation for a serious and potentially deadly shortage.

Not only does a heparin shortage appear imminent, but because the current suppliers of heparin are new, there is also a risk of misuse by overdose. New heparin suppliers mean new heparin packaging, sometimes arriving in amounts and strengths that are different than medical staffs are used to. For instance, many new heparin vials come in larger and stronger qualities than Baxter distributed previously.

Prior to this new danger, Heparin was already one of 5 drugs most commonly associated with hospital error. In an effort to prevent another heparin disaster, some health facilities are taking extra precautions, including extra nursing training, limiting heparin access and requiring more steps prior to heparin administration. Experts state that is likely error has already occurred.

As for a heparin shortage, health officials deny a shortage is looming; however, the American Society of Health-Systems Pharmacists has heparin on its list of “drugs in short supply.” As a result, rationing at many hospitals and pharmacies has begun.

Have you or a loved one suffered adverse reactions or death from taking Heparin in California? If so, you need the help of a seasoned and successful Law Team. At the Law Offices of Greenberg & Rudman LLP, we offer 50 years combined experience in fighting for the rights of the injured and winning. Please call us now at 1-800-ALAWPRO (1-800-252-9776) for a free and confidential consultation. We are here for you now.