Heparin Recall

On February 28, 2008, Baxter Healthcare Corp. announced that they are recalling all multi-dose vials and single-dose vials of their blood thinner heparin. This recall was due to deaths and allergic reactions resulting from being administered heparin made from Chinese imported ingredients. After the incident, all imports from the Chinese company have been blocked by the United States.¹

Fast Facts

1. Also recalled: Hep-Lock heparin flush product
2. Another supplier - APP Pharmaceuticals of Schaumburg - was able to meet US demand
3. An anticoagulant - stops blood clotting
4. Often used as a blood thinner
5. Can prevent blood clots from getting worse
6. Mostly administered intravenously
7. Medical uses: deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, heart attack, heart bypass surgery

Infant Overdose

On July 8, 2008, one infant in Corpus Christi, Texas died from a possible heparin overdose. The infant was previously ill so the cause of death is not clear. An autopsy is being conducted.²

The infant is one of 17 other infants that have been overdosed with heparin. According to the investigation, this overdose was probably due to an error in pharmacy while mixing of the ingredients to make the heparin solution. Heparin is used to clear IV lines from blood clots.²

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