Sanofi, a French pharmaceutical company with offices in Bridgewater, New Jersey, has issued a recall for Auvi-Q, its auto-injection epinephrine pens, due to incorrect dosage in some models. So far, the company has received 26 reports of malfunctions in the device throughout the United States and Canada. While none of the reports have been confirmed, the symptoms described by the victims seem to indicate hypersensitivity reactions which could be caused by overdoses. No deaths have been reported.
What Is Auvi-Q?
Auvi-Q pens are a popular brand of self-injected epinephrine, a drug used to treat anaphylactic reaction in patients with allergies. Many patients who have life-threatening allergic reactions to insect stings, foods and other allergens carry these pens so that they will have immediate access to epinephrine no matter where they are.
The Auvi-Q pens are small and easy to fit into a pocket, making them a popular choice for children and adults. Dosage is adjusted based on the patient’s age and other factors. Users are able to avoid the possibly fatal side effects of an allergic reaction through the use of the epi-pen.
The Auvi-Q Recall
The company has sent emails to many of its customers noting that all versions of Auvi-Q have been recalled, including those that were distributed to hospitals, doctor’s offices and wholesalers as well as those sold to the public through pharmacies. The company also plans on notifying customers by phone and fax. The number of packages to be recalled is estimated at about 490,000, with two pens per package. About 200,000 users are believed to be in danger of possibly possessing a faulty injector.
Those who believe they may be in possession of Auvi-Q pens that are subject to recall should immediately contact a healthcare provider for an alternative prescription.
The federal Food and Drug Administration has issued a formal recall notice, stating that customers should not use the Auvi-Q device unless the situation is a dire emergency and no other treatment is immediately available. The FDA approved Auvi-Q injectors for sale in the United States in August 2012.
What Should I Do If I Have An Auvi-Q Injector?
If you have an Auvi-Q injector in your possession, call your doctor immediately. It is critical that you receive a reliable epinephrine injector as soon as possible, so doctors and pharmacists are working to ensure that patients have alternative pens available.
If you have suffered injury or illness as a result of using the Auvi-Q injector, you may wish to speak to a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights and determine if you may have a cause of action to collect damages from the company. Drug companies are responsible for putting out safe, reliable products; when they fail to do so, they may be held liable for any injuries that result. A personal injury attorney will work with you to ensure that your well-being is protected and that, if applicable, you are compensated for your pain and suffering as well as your physical injuries.
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