Blood clot formation induced by Heparin can cause strokes, myocardial infarction, skin necrosis, gangrene of the extremities that may lead to amputation, and possibly death.
- Heparin is a blood thinner (anticoagulant), used to prevent blood clot formation.
- It is typically used during kidney dialysis and for patients with heart problems and those undergoing heart procedures such as:
- Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
- Atrial fibrillation (rapid and ineffective heartbeat)
- Blood clots in the veins
- Heart Catheterization
- Heart surgery with a cardiopulmonary bypass
- Among other problems, Heparin sodium injections have caused Heparin-induced Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (HITS), a serious antibody-mediated reaction resulting in blood clot formation.
- Patients typically notice problems with circulation (coolness of the skin to areas of the of the hands, feet, arms and legs) after heart catheterization, dialysis, and open heart surgery. Blood clot formation induced by Heparin can cause strokes, myocardial infarction, skin necrosis, gangrene of the extremities that may lead to amputation, and possibly death.
- Baxter International manufactures about half of the multi-dose Heparin vials used in the US.
- In January 2008 a Heparin recall was issued. On February 14, 2008, it was revealed that a Chinese factory that supplied the active ingredient for Baxter Heparin had never been inspected by the FDA. When the FDA finally did conduct an inspection of Baxter's Chinese Heparin supplier, it found serious deficiencies at the facility and cited the manufacturer for a number of violations. On March 5, 2008, both Baxter and the FDA announced that their respective investigations had found a contaminant in the active ingredient used in Baxter Heparin.
- Heparin side effects involve a variety of symptoms including allergic reaction, decreased blood pressure, chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, headache, hyperhidrosis, loss of consciousness, swelling of the throat, coma, and death.
- We are currently evaluating cases involving patients who have suffered injury or death resulting from Heparin use.
Contact an Alabama personal injury lawyer at Taylor Martino Zarzaur for a free initial consultation to review your case.
Taylor Martino Zarzaur serves clients along the entire Gulf Coast, including Mobile, Pensacola, Montgomery, Orange Beach, Gulf Shores and Baldwin County, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida.
