Many individuals throughout California rely upon prescription drugs and devices. Many times, these prescriptions are for conditions that could be considered life threatening. So, when the drug or device does not work as anticipated or when needed, the result could be tragic. This can cause a consumer protection concern for those who rely upon the prescription.
Recently, Meridian Medical Technologies discovered a problem with their EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. Auto-Injectors. Apparently, two of these devices failed. According to the company, these incidents were the result of a defective component from one of their suppliers. As a precautionary measure, the company issued a recall of these products with manufacturing dates covering an eight-month period.
The EpiPen and EpiPen Jr. devices are used to administer epinephrine to patients when they have a severe allergic reaction. Some individuals have a severe allergic reaction to items such as nuts or bee stings. If epinephrine is not administered immediately, the individual could suffer a fatal reaction. For this reason, many individuals keep one of these devices in their possession at all times.
On March 20, 2017, Meridian Medical Technologies issued the volunteer recall for locations other than the United States. Since then, the company has apparently discovered that some of the potentially affected devices could have been distributed within the United States and has issued the recall here as well. Although the product is being recalled due to the nature of its use, the company recommends that the consumer keep the product until a replacement one has been received.
Individuals often depend upon drug manufacturers to produce and deliver a product that will relieve a specific condition. Many times, the condition is minor, and a malfunction is not devastating to the individual. However, in a situation such as the one with EpiPens, the situation can easily become life threatening. When one finds that he or she has suffered as the result of a prescription drug or device malfunction, he or she will want to review his or her consumer protection legal options available within California’s court system.
Source: upi.com, “Device-maker expands recall of Mylan EpiPen, EpiPen Jr. to include U.S.“, Doug G. Ware, March 31, 2017