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Heparin Deaths

Several heparin deaths were confirmed for the first time by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in July 2008, when the agency released the results of its investigation of 93 heparin-linked deaths that occurred between January 1 and March 31, 2008.

Deaths Caused by Contaminated Heparin
The FDA conclusively linked three of the deaths to Baxter heparin contaminated with OSCS, an ingredient that is not naturally present in heparin. Another 83 of the 93 heparin-linked deaths were described by the FDA as "potential complications of heparin use." It was not possible to trace the heparin used in all of the deceased patients.

For example, ten heparin-associated deaths were reported as due to anaphylaxis (severe shock) or to hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). Three of these heparin deaths were traced to Baxter lots that tested positive for OSCS. The heparin that was involved in the other seven deaths was not traceable.

Adverse Reactions to Contaminated Heparin
According to the FDA, the adverse events observed after treatment with the suspected heparin are:

  • allergic reactions
  • low blood pressure
  • angioedema (swelling beneath the skin)
  • shortness of breath
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • abdominal pain

Anaphylaxis and hypotension, in particular, can be life-threatening.

Heparin Uses
Heparin has been used in the U.S. since the 1930s, in such applications as:

  • preventing or treating blood clots in veins, arteries and lungs
  • before coronary artery bypass graft surgery and other types of surgery
  • before dialysis in kidney patients

Heparin can be injected intravenously or under the skin, and it is also used in a diluted solution to flush out catheters and other lines. The specific applications used in the heparin deaths reported to the FDA have not been released by the FDA.

If a Heparin Death Has Occurred in Your Family
If a heparin death has occurred in your family, you are probably facing shock and trauma, and anxiety about the future. A needless death due to a defective drug is especially difficult to deal with. Learn more about your legal options — contact a defective drug attorney today to schedule a consultation and discuss your circumstances.

Contact a Heparin Recall Lawyer

More Heparin Resources