Personal Injury Law

Two Fentanyl Patch Recalls

By Jeff Lowe, Esq.

Over the course of five days, two fentanyl patches have been recalled because of defects that could lead to respiratory depression and fatal overdoses.

The first recall was announced on Feb. 12 and covers Duragesic pain patches. Made Ortho-McNeil-Jannssen Pharmaceuticals, a unit of Johnson & Johnson, Duragesic is a powerful opioid drug used to treat moderate to severe chronic pain. The recall impacts the 25 mcg/hr fentanyl patches that have expiration dates on or before December 2009. The recall was prompted by concerns that the patch may have a cut along one side of the drug reservoir which could expose patients or caregivers directly to the dangerous gel. The same recall also covers generic patches sold by Novartis AG's Sandoz unit.

The second fentanyl patch recall was announced on Feb. 17. It applies to 14 lots of fentanyl patches sold in the United States by Actavis South Atlantic, formerly known as Abrika Pharmaceuticals. The pain patches may have a fold-over defect that could cause the patch to leak and expose patients and caregivers directly to the dangerous gel.

This past summer, juries in Florida and Texas concluded that leaking fentanyl patches made by Johnson & Johnson led to the deaths of at least two people.

The lawyers of The Lowe Law Firm are experienced in helping people injured by a dangerous prescription drug. We will seek compensation for past and future medical expenses, past and future wages, pain and suffering, disability and other damages. We also represent family members in wrongful death cases.

We offer a free initial consultation for victims of dangerous medications. If you cannot make it to our office, we will come to you at the hospital or your home.

Contact the lawyers at The Lowe Law Firm today by calling 877-678-3400.

Full post as published by Missouri Injury Lawyer Blog on February 13, 2008 (boomark / email).