The U.S. Food and Drug Administration health investigators have reported finding bugs, a flying bird, and other unsterile conditions at Ameridose LLC. Ameridose is an affiliate of the New England Compounding Center (NECC) compounding pharmacy at the center of the fungal meningitis outbreak responsible for 32 deaths in 19 states due to tainted steroids. Investigators closed Massachusetts-based Ameridose on October 10 to inspect its facilities.
Details of the investigation report were released earlier this week and lists several quality control issues at Ameridose, including a failure to test the potency of its products, a failure to properly classify patient complaints and the use of “vague, canned language” when describing negative patient reactions to its drugs. Officials also found that the company did not properly sanitize equipment and utensils to prevent contamination and failed to appropriately maintain the building where their products were being manufactures.
Meningitis Cases Due to Tainted Steroids Continue to Grow
The tainted steroids manufactured by New England Compounding Center are methylprednisolone acetate injections used to treat patients who have chronic pain in patients who their back and joints such as knees, shoulders and hips. Reports indicate that NECC shipped more than 17,000 vials of the tainted steroids to 24 states. The company has since recalled all the lots of the tainted steroids. NECC’s facility has also been closed since last month as the total fungal meningitis case count climbs to 461. Massachusetts officials have taken steps to permanently revoke its license.
If you suspect that you received a tainted steroid injection and are experiencing symptoms of fungal meningitis, including fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea and vomiting, photophobia (sensitivity to light) and altered mental status, you should seek medical treatment immediately.
Personal Injury Attorneys in Philadelphia and New Jersey
The Philadelphia personal injury attorneys at Messa & Associates are experienced at handling cases involving injuries as a result of defective drug and pharmaceutical products. Our extremely skilled team of personal injury attorneys and medical experts is dedicated to ensuring you receive proper compensation for your personal injuries. If you have been injured by a tainted steroid shot, a defective drug or medical device, a negligent medical provider, or have endured any other type of personal injury, contact the personal injury attorneys of Messa & Associates for a free consultation. Call toll free at 1-877-MessaLaw, or submit a free online inquiry.
