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Heparin® Sodium Injections

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A heparin sodium injection is a medication that prevents blood clots and, when injected into a catheter or IV line, helps fluid flow freely within that line. Unlike other forms of heparin, heparin sodium is not indicated for injection directly into the body.

Before administering a heparin sodium injection, it's important that healthcare professionals:

• Discuss a patient's complete medical history to determine if use of heparin sodium is appropriate and safe in a particular situation
• Inspect the vial of heparin sodium. The solution should not be used if it is discolored or contains any noticeable particles
• Invert the vial at least 6 times before injection to ensure that the solution is adequately mixed

A heparin sodium injection may also be referred to as a:

• heparin sodium anticoagulant drug
• heparin sodium flush
• heparin sodium IV

Heparin® Sodium Side Effects

Unfortunately, the heparin sodium drug has been known to cause a range of serious side effects, including:

• alopecia, hair loss
• excessive hemorrhage (bleeding)
• heparin induced thrombocytopenia (a condition in which the immune system destroys blood platelets. If left untreated, thrombocytopenia can result in stroke, heart attack and death)
• hyperkalemia, high levels of potassium in the blood (If left untreated, this condition can result in life-threatening arrhythmias)
• osteoporosis
• severe allergic reaction, marked by breathing problems, skin rash and, in the worst cases, anaphylactic shock

Symptoms of heparin sodium side effects may include:

• bluish or whitish skin discoloration
• breathing difficulties
• confusion, dizziness or faintness
• fever and/or chills
• headache
• increasing pain, discomfort or redness at the site of a known blood clot
• nausea and/or vomiting
• rapidly falling blood pressure
• sudden numbness on one side of the body
• vision, speech and/or balance problems

As soon as heparin patients notice that they are developing any of the above, it's vital that they seek emergency medical care to stabilize their health.

To date, over 145 people have died as a result of heparin side effects.

Heparin® Sodium Recall

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued two nationwide heparin recalls:

• In December 2007, the FDA recalled a few lots of unopened heparin syringes due to possible contamination with the Serratia marcescens bacteria, which can cause life-threatening infections.
  
• In March 2008, the FDA issued a second heparin sodium recall focused on lots of the drug produced in China. These heparin vials were "over-sulphated," as manufacturers tried to cut down on production costs by cutting the heparin drug with a shellfish derivative.

Heparin® Lawsuits

Patients injured after receiving heparin injections should:

• Seek immediate medical care to save their lives
• Work with their doctor to find an alternative anti-coagulant medication
• Meet with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in heparin lawsuits to find out if they have a case against Baxter Healthcare, the maker of heparin

During a free initial consultation, lawyers for the heparin drug will thoroughly evaluate a patient's claim and give him/her advice regarding whether an individual lawsuit or a class action case is best.

It's important to note that families of deceased heparin patients will also likely be entitled to compensation by pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit.

If You Have Been Injured by Heparin®

Have you or a loved one been injured after taking Heparin®? If so, contact us to speak with an experienced Heparin® attorney who specializes in drug recall litigation & lawsuits. Let us help you win the compensation you need and deserve.