On Monday October 15, 2012, the FDA issued a new patient safety alert based on findings in its ongoing investigation into the fungal meningitis outbreak. It found two additional drugs prepared at the New England Compounding Center (NECC) with possible links to deadly infections.
A patient who received an epidural injection of triamcinolone acetonide, another type of steroid manufactured by NECC, has been identified with a possible meningitis infection and is being actively monitored. Two transplant patients, both with a reported Aspergillus fumigatus infection, were administered an NECC cardioplegic solution during their surgery are also being closely monitored as their treatment is being investigated. Cardioplegic solution is used in open heart surgeries to prevent injury by paralyzing the cardiac muscle.
As a result, the FDA is urging extreme caution and has asked health care professionals to contact patients who have been administered any injectable medication, including injectable ophthalmic drugs used in conjunction with eye surgery, from or produced by the NECC and warn them of possible infection.
The fungal meningitis outbreak associated with epidural steroid injections of methylprednisolone acetate continues to grow. Indiana ranks fourth highest with 23 confirmed cases of fungal meningitis according to the CDC. Two Hoosiers have died as a result of the infection.
If you or someone you care about received an epidural steroid injection and has contracted fungal meningitis or a serious injury, contact us. Our personal injury product liability attorneys have experience handling cases involving dangerous drugs and defective medical devices. It is important for you to understand your legal rights and options and get compensation for your injuries. The initial consultation is free of charge and no legal fees will be collected unless your claim is paid.