Intravenous (IV) Solutions (Select Lots) by Baxter: Recall - Potential Presence of Particulate Matter

[Posted 04/10/2015]

AUDIENCE: Pharmacy, Risk Manager, Nursing

ISSUE:  Baxter International Inc. is voluntarily recalling select lots of intravenous (IV) solutions to the hospital/user level due to the potential presence of particulate matter. Intravenous administration of a solution containing sterile particulate matter may lead to adverse health consequences. The extent and severity of harm depends on the size, number, and composition of the foreign material, and patient’s underlying medical condition. In the absence of in-line filtration, these particles may cause: local vein irritation, inflammatory reaction, aggravation of preexisting infections, allergic reactions, and systemic embolization. In high-risk patients this may lead to serious adverse health consequences.

BACKGROUND: The lots being recalled were distributed to customers and distributors in the United States and Bermuda between January 14, 2015 and March 5, 2015. See the press release for a listing of affected products.

While Baxter manufacturing personnel were performing routine maintenance, particulate matter was detected and identified as material from a solution transmission system pump. There have been no adverse events or product complaints associated with this issue reported to Baxter. Baxter began the customer notification process on March 24, 2015.

RECOMMENDATION: Customers have been directed not to use products from the recalled lots. Recalled products should be returned to Baxter for credit by contacting Baxter Healthcare Center for Service at 1-888-229-0001, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Central Time. Unaffected lots of product are available for replacement.

Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

[04/09/2015 - Press Release -  Baxter]