FDA Finds Trigger in Heparin Deaths?

The United States FDA has traced a contaminant in the blood thinning drug Heparin to China and ten other countries, including the United States. They believe this contamination could have resulted in dozens of deaths, but no definitive proof has been given. Other countries are skeptical, and both sides are hoping tests over the next few weeks will provide more answers.

The FDA states the cause is Heparin containing oversulfated chondroitin sulfate. The allergic reactions can cause nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and a severe drop in blood pressure. The drop in blood pressure is the most common side effect.

Below is a list of countries known to have the contaminated Heparin:

China
United States
Australia
Canada
Denmark
France
Italy
Japan
Netherlands
New Zealand
Germany

Most of the information we are reading online discusses deaths since January 2007, but tonight on CSPAN the date was March 2006 for when the first deaths started being reported.

If you have been on Heparin in the last two years or so, it wouldn't hurt to discuss the situation with your doctor.