Defective Medical Devices: Insulin Product Recalls
While some of us rely on eating right and getting enough exercise to stay healthy, others have medical conditions that require an extra level of care. For people with a variety of conditions, medical devices, medications, and health aids are a necessary part of their daily routine. Unfortunately, when these devices fail it can result in serious harm, and even knowing when a device is defective or not working properly can be difficult. If you have been injured as the result of a defective medical device, you are not alone. Various devices are recalled on a routine basis, the latest of which involves insulin delivery systems for people who are diabetic. If you or someone you care about takes insulin to control diabetes, there are important product recalls that you need to be aware of.
Diabetes and Insulin Treatments
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states that roughly 30 million people suffer from diabetes in this country, and about one third of all people with diabetes are undiagnosed. Over 1.4 million new cases are diagnosed each year, and diabetes continues to rank among the top 10 leading causes of death. If you suspect you have diabetes or have received a diagnosis, it is important to follow the treatments your doctor prescribes to prevent complications. Complications associated with diabetes include the following:
- Stroke
- Vision problems and blindness
- Heart attack
- Kidney disease
- Hypoglycemia
- Hypertension
According to the ADA, insulin serves the important function of helping your body to break down sugars and to convert carbohydrates to energy. In type 1 diabetes, which is less common and usually diagnosed in children and young people, the body does not produce enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is more common, and occurs when the body does not use insulin properly. The ADA states that insulin is required for people with type 1 diabetes, and may also be necessary at times for people with type 2 diabetes a well. Failing to take insulin as required could result in diabetic shock, as well as any of the above complications
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Recent Recalls That May Affect You
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there have been two recent recalls of products that deliver much needed insulin to diabetics, and both recalls are for the same company. The Insulet Corporation, which supplies insulin management systems for people with diabetes, recalled products in November 2015 due to problems in the product’s insulin delivery system and needles. The product was shown to have failed in delivering the required dose of insulin, which could result in significant damages for people dependent on insulin in controlling their diabetes. Insulet has notified distributors and customers by mail, and advises consumers to check the lot numbers of their insulin delivery systems to see if they are affected. If you suspect you have been using a defective product and have not been getting your required dose of insulin, notify your physician immediately.
Let Us Assist You With Your Case
If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury or illness as the result of a medical error or due to a defective medical device, contact our experienced South Carolina medical malpractice and personal injury attorneys right away. At Anastopoulo Law Firm we help victims get the compensation they need to recover from their injuries. With offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina, we will fight for your rights, and hold responsible parties accountable. Call us today for a free consultation.
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