Heparin Contaminent Found

The contaminant which caused the numerous cases of allergic reactions to the blood thinner has been found.

In April, 2008, the FDA announced it had identified the contaminant in Baxter Heparin blood thinner product which was undetected in testing prior to release of the anti coagulant.

As of April, 62 deaths have been allegedly linked to Heparin and more than 350 allergic reactions have also been reported. Heparin is manufactured overseas from pig intestines. It is believed that the contaminant was introduced at the overseas plant.

Heparin has been in use since the 1930's and millions of doses have been administered, generally to stop potentially fatal blood clots.

Baxter can be found on the web at www.baxter.com.