The Pittsburgh medical malpractice lawyers of Lupetin & Unatin are warning parents about the recall of Docusate, a laxative used to treat constipation in children and infants. The FDA has confirmed the product has been contaminated with Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia), a bacteria linked to an ongoing outbreak. To date, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has confirmed 58 cases of B. Cepacia, from 8 states, including Pennsylvania, linked to Docusate products.
- Cepacia is a group of bacteria that can be found in soil and water. B. cepaciais an opportunistic human pathogen that most often causes pneumonia immunosuppressed individuals with underlying lung disease. People, especially children and infants, who have certain health problems like weakened immune systems or chronic lung diseases, particularly cystic fibrosis, may be more susceptible to infections with B. cepacia. B cepacia is a known cause of infections in hospitalized patients. B. cepacia bacteria are often resistant to common antibiotics.
Hospitals have been warned to stop using and dispensing recalled product immediately. Using these products in patients, especially children and infants, whose immune system is compromised could result in infections, which may be life-threatening. The recall applies to all liquid products manufactured by PharmaTech and distributed by: Rugby, Major, Bayshore, Metron, Centurion, and Virtus.
Parents whose children are taking Docusate currently are encouraged to inquire with their doctor to make sure the product is safe and not part of the recall. Additionally, if your child was prescribed a Docusate product and was later diagnosed with a Burkholderia cepacia infection, you are recommended to contact the lawyers of Lupetin & Unatin to learn about your legal rights.