FDA warns pharmacies, healthcare staff to avoid drug with aluminum risk

The FDA warned healthcare workers and pharmacies on Feb. 9 not to use an unapproved potassium phosphates drug made by Hospira, a Pfizer company, in pediatric patients because the aluminum exposure can be up to double the agency’s limit. 

Advertisement

Toxic exposure levels to aluminum can cause softening of the bones, reduced bone mineralization, neurological problems, microcytic hypochromic anemia, and a lessened or stopped bile flow, according to the regulatory agency. 

Potassium phosphates injections are used in IV fluids “to correct hypophosphatemia and for parenteral nutrition in adults and pediatric patients,” the FDA said.

The alert recommended two FDA-approved drugs: Fresenius Kabi’s potassium phosphates drug for all ages, and CMP Development’s injection for patients 12 and older who weigh at least 88 pounds and adults who weigh at least 99 pounds.

At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.

Register to Attend Webinar

The Performance Gap Your Pharmacy Training Metrics Can’t See

Monday, August 10
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM CDT

Presenters: Michael Alexander, AudirieDr. Tina Moen, PharmD, Colibri Healthcare

Advertisement

Next Up in Pharmacy

Advertisement

Comments are closed.