THE Ministry of Health has advised citizens to discontinue using heparin sodium in 0.9 per cent sodium chloride injection after the product was recalled due to the potential for elevated endotoxin levels.

The recalled products are not registered for use in Trinidad and Tobago.

However, the ministry said, out of caution, those in possession should discontinue use immediately and return the product if possible.

The ministry’s statement comes after a recall by US healthcare company Baxter International Inc “due to the potential for elevated endotoxin levels based on issues related to the bacterial endotoxin test” specific to lot number N008235.

Heparin sodium (two units/mL) in 0.9 per cent sodium chloride injection is a sterile solution prepared from heparin sodium USP and used as an anticoagulant.

It maintains catheter patency and is packaged in 2,000 USP units, 1,000 mL in VIAFLEX Plus Plastic Container.

“Use of heparin with higher than acceptable endotoxin levels may lead to significant adverse health consequences ranging from febrile reactions to toxic shock, multi-organ failure and death,” the ministry advised.

This issue affects one lot, distributed between March 12, 2023, and August 24, 2023, to healthcare facilities, wholesalers and distributors in the US.

The product code and lot number are on the individual product and shipping carton.

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