Heparin is a prescription drug that is used as a blood thinner. It is popular among surgeons and other healthcare providers because of its fast ability to prevent blood clots from forming. However, recent severe side effects have been discovered in patients who were given this drug, leaving the drug manufacturer open for liability from injured patients. If you or a loved one has been adversely affected after ingesting Heparin, consult a Cincinnati product liability lawyer to assist you with establishing a claim.

Baxter International is responsible for manufacturing approximately 50% of Heparin that was sold in the United States. In January 2008, the manufacturer issued a recall of nine lots of Heparin vials. The recall commenced after the company received a hundred reports of severe allergic reactions that occurred in individuals shortly after the consumption of the drug. The Food and Drug Administration also released a Public Health Advisory warning that recommended that patients should not be given the drug because of hundreds of reports of severe side effects that were associated with the drug. Even more disconcerting were reports that stated that the Food and Drug Administration had never inspected a factory in China, as required by law, where the active ingredient for Heparin is produced by Baxter.

Side effects that are associated with Heparin vary widely in type and severity. Some side effects are mild and may include symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, restlessness, headaches, vomiting and thirst. Other side effects include dyspnea, heart palpitations, fainting and unresponsiveness. Heparin can also cause thrombocytopenia which causes the blood platelets to decrease in number and increased levels of potassium in the bloodstream.  In 2009, over 4000 life-threatening reactions were reported by patients and 21 deaths have been linked with consumption of Heparin. Certain patients should not take Heparin due to an increase in severe reactions, including patients with a low blood cell count, patients who are actively bleeding, patients with high blood pressure, brain surgery patients, patients with liver disease or hemophilia patients.

A Cincinnati product liability lawyer will use the findings of the Food and Drug Administration’s reports and recommendations to prove that Heparin is a defective drug. He or she will also help you prove that the drug caused damages to you and help you receive compensation to cover these damages. If you or a loved one has sustained injuries due to Heparin, contact a Cincinnati product liability lawyer to set up a FREE initial consultation.