The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said today that it will start posting a quarterly report on its website of medications that are being reviewed for potential safety issues.
The first list of 20 drugs was posted today. Medications include Desflurane, Heparin, Icodextrin, Insulin U-500, and Nitroglycerin. Potential problems associated with the medications are also noted.
The new safety information is being distributed to consumers as a result of the 2007 Food and Drug Administration Amendments Act. The act now requires the FDA to post quarterly information on potential drug risks, based on a review of adverse event reports submitted by doctors and hospitals.
The FDA emphasizes that just because a medication is noted does not mean that patients should stop taking them, but rather the list is part of an effort to alert patients earlier of potential side effects. Patients should consult their health care providers if they have further questions.
Sources:
http://www.fda.gov/cder/aers/potential_signals/default.htm
http://www.fda.gov/cder/aers/potential_signals/potential_signals_2008Q1.htm
Tags: Desflurane, FDA, Heparin, Icodextrin, Insulin U-500, Nitroglycerin
