Personal Injury Law

Contaminated Heparin May Have Caused Deaths

By Jamie G. Goldstein

Heparin, a blood thinner, may be linked to the deaths of at least a dozen people.  The FDA recently reported a contaminant in the Heparin could be causing serious side effects, including death.  It is believed the contaminated Heparin came from shipments from China.  The shipments were sent to at least 10 countries.

The Heparin is causing serious adverse reactions due to an oversulfated chondroitin sulfate.  The compound, made from animal cartilage, has been reported to cause side effects from nausea and vomiting to shortness of breath and substantial drops in blood pressure.

Heparin is a common blood thinner prescribed to patients.  Blood thinners are prescribed for various reasons, but often immediately after surgery to reduce the chance of blood clots during the recovery period.

If you or someone you know is required to be on a blood thinner, make sure you discuss the type of blood thinner you are being prescribed and if there are safer alternatives.  Heparin is not the only blood thinner available and depending on your circumstances may or may not be the best choice for you.

If you have had an adverse reaction described above while on Heparin, contact an attorney.  You may be able to take legal action for the injuries caused by the Heparin.

Full post as published by Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer on April 23, 2008 (boomark / email).