Investigations

Baxter Heparin is a drug that thins the blood to prevent clotting. Baxter Heparin is used in patients with:

• deep vein thrombosis
• pulmonary embolism
• acute coronary syndrome
• atrial fibrillation

Baxter Heparin is most commonly used during heart surgery, dialysis, and to avoid blood clots in the bedridden patients. Baxter Heparin is administrated intravenously and is a vital part of the surgery and dialysis. Baxter International manufactures about half the supply of Heparin, which received FDA approval in 1972.

Baxter Heparin is made from mucosal tissues that are commonly found in pig intestines and cow lungs. Baxter receives its supply of mucosal tissues from a facility in Changzhou, China and from a plant in Cherry Hill, NJ. These two facilities are owned by Scientific Protein Laboratories, a Wisconsin based company. Most of the world’s Heparin supply comes from China. Currently, China supplies Heparin to 41 other countries.

Why Baxter Heparin?

Although other drugs can work as a blood thinner, Baxter Heparin gained popularity because it works quickly and swiftly leaves the system. Baxter Heparin is most frequently administrated in quick and large doses, also called bolus doses, for patients that need their blood thinned for a short time. For these patients, there are times that only Heparin will be effective. Baxter manufactures at least 75% of Heparin in these large multi-dose vials.

Baxter Heparin is also given in small doses to clear out intravenous catheters and treat blood clotting in other body parts.

Baxter Heparin Side Effects

Baxter Heparin side effects include:

• severe allergic reactions
• heparin induced thrombocytopenia
• death
• abdominal pain
• decreased blood pressure
• dizziness
• vomiting
• difficulty breathing

Baxter Heparin Recall

In January 2008, Baxter recalled 9 types of multi-dose Heparin vials after over 100 patients reported severe allergic reactions. On February 29, 2008, Baxter recalled all Baxter Heparin products after scientists discovered that the Baxter Heparin was contaminated and the cause of the allergic reactions. 

If you believe you or someone you love has been affected by contaminated Baxter Heparin, contact our lawyers to learn about your legal rights.