Docusate Bacterial Outbreak Information
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning on June 29, 2016, providing preliminary information regarding potentially contaminated oral liquid docusate products which may be responsible for recent B. cepacia (Burkholderia cepacia) complex infections.
Docusate liquid is used in patients to relieve constipation. The infectious agent, B. cepacia, is the name for a group or “complex” of bacteria that can be found in soil and water. B. cepacia bacteria are often resistant to common antibiotics, according to the CDC.
B. cepacia Infections Cause for Concern
These infections have occurred primarily in ventilated patients without cystic fibrosis and who are being treated in intensive care units. B. cepacia infections are usually found in cystic fibrosis patients, so the presence of B. cepacia in patients without cystic fibrosis is new cause for concern.
Past B. cepacia Outbreaks
Past transmission of B. cepacia from contaminated medicines and devices has been reported to the CDC:
- In 2005, CDC was notified by several states of clusters of pneumonia and other infections caused by B. cepacia and associated with contaminated mouthwash.
- In 2004, CDC was notified of a voluntary recall of over-the-counter nasal spray due to contamination with B. cepacia complex.
- Also in 2004, B. cepacia was linked to nosocomial infections among intensive care unit patients and associated with exposure to sublingual probes.
CONTACT THE WEINBERG LAW FIRM FOR A FREE DRUG LAWSUIT CASE EVALUATION
Since 1984, Attorney Eric Weinberg has been assisting personal injury victims. Focusing primarily on pharmaceutical drug litigation, The Weinberg Law Firm has obtained over 800 million on behalf of clients. If you would like information regarding a potential Burkholderia cepacia infection lawsuit or docusate lawsuit, please call our law firm at 1-877-934-6274. Our phones are answered 24/7.
