Number of heparin-related deaths reported triples

A new report from the FDA suggests that recent problems with heparin have proven to be even worse than originally thought. The report concludes that deaths linked to all versions of heparin--including a tainted version of the drug sold by Baxter--have tripled. There now are 62 reports of patients dying who were infused with heparin from January 1, 2007 through the end of this past March who had a one or more allergic reactions. A prior FDA report had only listed 19 deaths. At present, the FDA isn't sure what caused the spike in adverse reactions. Right now, they're suggesting that this is more of matter of delays in reports from companies and a growth in reports from consumers reading about Baxter's problems.

To learn more about the report:
- read this Chicago Tribune piece

Related Articles:
Baxter provides update on heparin reactions. Baxter press release
Post-heparin, no oversight excuses. Heparin report

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