FDA Reports Numerous Safety Problems with Compounding Pharmacies

By Grant Law Office on April 15, 2013

Filthy conditions at the New England Compounding Center (NECC) led to a fungal meningitis outbreak that resulted in 53 fatalities and 680 illnesses. This outbreak spurred inspections at specialized pharmacies nationwide by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials. According to a news report in The Washington Post, federal inspectors discovered dozens of safety issues at 30 specialized pharmacies.

At a Florida company, for example, inspectors discovered unknown black particles in seven vials of an injectable medicine. During other facility visits, they found mold and rust in rooms that are supposed to be clean. They also found tears in gloves worn by technicians. The FDA has stated that while many of these facilities have adequate standards and oversight, other specialized drug manufacturers have been able to slip through the cracks. The FDA is now asking Congress for more authority over compounders of high-risk sterile products to ensure that patients are not put in harm’s way.

If you are experiencing unexpected side effects after receiving a medical treatment or after taking a new medication, it is important to contact your doctor right away. Contaminated drugs can result in serious illnesses or even death. The recent multi-state fungal meningitis outbreak, for example, resulted from contaminated steroid injections. There were 733 reported cases from the one outbreak. Of those infected, 235 victims suffered from meningitis only; 145 cases involved meningitis and a spinal infection; 311 victims suffered only from a spinal infection; and seven victims suffered a stroke.

It is possible with the help of a knowledgeable Georgia personal injury attorney to hold negligent drug manufacturers accountable for the injuries and damages they cause. Victims, or their families, may pursue financial support for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages and other related damages. To learn more, contact The Law Offices of Wayne Grant, P.C. at (404) 995-3955.