Protamine Sulfate Lawsuit

Recently, there have been reports of individuals administered Protamine Sulfate who later suffered severe cardiac complications, including death. At this time, it is unknown whether the complications with protamine sulfate relate to the entire national supply or are limited to specific lots of the drug.

Patients and family of loved ones of patients that underwent surgery in the summer of 2013 and suffered from cardiac trauma are encouraged to contact one of our trained Protamine Sulfate attorneys for a free case evaluation to discuss their rights.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Protamine Sulfate Lawsuits:

What is Protamine Sulfate?

• Protamine sulfate is a coagulating agent.

How is Protamine Sulfate used?

• Protamine Sulfate is administered after surgery to counteract the effects of Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant regularly administered before and during surgery.

What is this current lawsuit about?

• Specific lots of protamine sulfate are suspected of causing severe cardiac complications including cardiac arrest or heart attack resulting in death.

If I suspect I or someone I know may have suffered because of Protamine Sulfate, what should I do?

• Contact the Levin, Papantonio law firm immediately and speak with one of our attorneys to evaluate whether you may have a protamine sulfate lawsuit. The consultation and evaluation are free.

How will I know if I have been administered Protamine Sulfate?

• You may not know. Unlike medications you obtain from a pharmacy, protamine sulfate is a medicine that is administered during surgery at the direction of aphysician. Often, the drug is referenced in relationship to heparin.
• If you or someone you know underwent surgery, was administered heparin and suffered a cardiac complication, contact our law firm to protect your rights.

How does Protamine Sulfate work?

• When working properly, the medicine attaches to heparin molecules and forms a new ion that lacks anticoagulant activity. The chemical, when administered in the absence of heparin, is known to have a weak anticoagulating effect.

How is Protamine Sulfate administered?

• Often, the medicine is administered intravenously either by IV line or injection.

Are there adverse reactions associated with Protamine Sulfate?

• Known adverse reactions include but are not limited to:
  • Hypertension
  • Braducardia
  • Circulatory Collapse
  • Lassitude
  • Nausea & Vomiting
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pulmonary edema
  • Acute pulmonary hypertension
  • Anaphylaxis
  • Transient flushing and warm feeling
  • Back pain