Deaths Linked to Heparin

Jamie Sheller — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 00:02:31 GMT

Several deaths have been linked to specific lots of heparin. Baxter International makes heparin, which is a popular blood-thinner. The drug is often used in patients prior to dialysis or heart surgery. In early 2008, there was a significant increase in allergic reactions to heparin. Some patients died following those allergic reactions. According to the FDA, several of the deaths have been linked to drug lots contaminated by a substance called oversulfated chondroitin sulfate. Following the spike in allergic reactions, Baxter's heparin products were recalled in February 2008. The active ingredient in Baxter's heparin came from Scientific Products Laboratories, a Wisconsin-based company, that manufactured the raw ingredients at a plant in China. Chinese health officials dispute the FDA's findings that the tainted product originated in China. If you, or someone you know, has been injured by heparin, contact Sheller, P.C., at 215-790-7300.

Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Jamie Sheller

Does Lipitor Work For Women?

Jamie Sheller — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 12:43:09 GMT

Lipitor is a cholesterol medication that has been the top-selling drug in the world. Though doctors have prescribed the drug to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in both men and women who are at risk for heart disease, there is little evidence of Lipitor's effectiveness in reducing heart attacks in women. The Journal of Empirical Studies has published a study which illustrated these findings regarding Lipitor. Furthermore, Pfizer, the maker of Lipitor, does not disclose in its advertising that the clinical trial results for Lipitor were not significant for women. Thus, there may be a skewed perception of how effective Lipitor may be in protecting women against heart attacks. According to the authors of the study,

Our findings indicate that each year, reasonably healthy women spend billions of dollars on drugs in the hope of preventing heart attacks but that scientific evidence supporting their hope does not exist.

Women should be aware of this data, so that they can make informed decisions about their healthcare.Originally posted at InjuryBoard by Jamie Sheller

Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer - prescription drugs

Deaths Linked to Heparin

Does Lipitor Work For Women?