Baxter IV Solutions Recalled for Potential Presence of Particulate Matter

 Posted on February 12, 2016 in Product Liability

By Shawn Kasserman

Intravenous (IV) solutions are intended to hydrate or rehydrate patients while under the care of a physician, surgeon, or other applicable healthcare professional. Administration of the solution is handled by licensed professionals, and the patient has no say or knowledge regarding any potential adverse events from a contaminated bag. This makes the recent recall of Baxter IV solutions highly concerning for anyone that has recently visited the hospital, undergone surgery, or otherwise received IV solutions.

About the Recall

Comprised of water and electrolytes, the IV solutions were distributed to hospitals and other end users throughout the United States. A customer complaint led to the identification of particulate matter, which was later determined to be an insect. Baxter International Inc. voluntarily recalled all affected lots of the IV solution, but no one knows how many were administered to patients.

Risks of receiving the solution include allergic reactions, local irritation, and inflammation of the tissues or organs. If in-line filtration was not used, blood vessel blockage, which can lead to stroke, heart attack, or damage to other organs might have occurred. Severe reactions, particularly those associated with the lack of in-line filtration, also carry a risk of long-term health complications or death.

Adverse Reactions after a Procedure? Seek Skilled Legal Counsel

Patients who were adversely affected by the recalled IV solutions are encouraged to contact the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. Patients also have the right to pursue fair compensation for their injuries or any wrongful death. However, when medications, drugs, or medical equipment are involved, it requires strong investigation skills to determine the true root cause. As such, anyone who has been injured or suffered a wrongful death should seek the assistance of a skilled defective drug attorney.

At Tomasik Kotin Kasserman, we have the experience and knowledge needed to investigate effectively and pursue medical malpractice and defective drug or equipment cases. Dedicated to helping you and your loved ones seek justice for injuries or death caused by healthcare professionals and defective products, we provide aggressive representation and ensure your rights are protected. To schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced Chicago, IL defective drug attorney today, call 312-605-8800 today.