Baxter Heparin Recall

Baxter Heparin, a blood thinner, is under a nationwide voluntary recall as a precautionary measure after several allergic type reactions were reported.

Baxter reports on their website, symptoms which may result from the use of Heparin include.. "adverse patient reactions have included: stomach pain or discomfort, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, decreased or low blood pressure, chest pain, fast heart rate, dizziness, fainting, unresponsiveness, shortness of breath, feeling your heart beat strong or fast, drug ineffectiveness, burning sensation, redness or paleness of skin, abnormal sensation of the skin, mouth or lips, flushing, increased sweating, decreased skin sensitivity, headache, feeling unwell, restlessness, watery eyes, throat swelling, thirst and difficulty opening the mouth. Some of these reactions may be or life threatening."

Heparin is a prescription only blood thinner (anti coagulant) primarily used for hemodialysis and cardiac invasive procedures.

The recall issued in January is not for the entire production line of Heparin, but for nine lots produced during a certain time frame. Users are instructed to cease using Heparin for treatment and return the product to Baxter.

Baxter is available on the web at www.baxter.com