GranuFlo is a powdered drug that serves as a chemical component in dialysis for renal failure, which occurs when the kidneys are unable to effectively filter the blood of waste products. GranuFlo and its liquid counterpart, NaturaLyte, are manufactured by Fresenius Medical Care (FMC). The Germany-based Fresenius is the largest provider in the U.S. of dialysis treatment, education, and support services. GranuFlo was first introduced to the U.S. market in 2003 and quickly grew in popularity, since then serving the majority of patients undergoing dialysis treatment in the nation.
GranuFlo has been touted for its safety in dry sodium diacetate as opposed to liquid glacial acetic acid. Dialysis treatment, which uses bicarbonate to neutralize blood acid levels, requires careful monitoring. Dosing errors causing excess levels of blood bicarbonate, further resulting in more serious conditions, have come to light in recent years.
Several claims have been filed against FMC by patients or family members of patients who received GranuFlo in their dialysis treatment and experienced adverse side effects, asserting that the manufacturer knew of the risks and did not adequately inform medical professionals administering the drug. Noted side effects of the use of GranuFlo, as well as NaturaLyte, include:
- Cardiac arrest
- Low blood pressure
- Metabolic alkalosis
A variety of blood and heart conditions have been associated with the use of GranuFlo. Serious side effects have also led to the death of some patients.
At McDivitt Law Firm, we feel that you deserve information that may be relevant to your rights as a consumer. We want to alert you to a potential claim regarding medications that you or someone you know may have been prescribed.
We may be able to help you if:
- You or someone you love have developed cardiac arrhythmia as a result of using GranuFlo or have suffered cardiac arrest.
- You or someone you love have developed low blood pressure.
- You or someone you love have suffered from metabolic alkalosis.
If you or someone you know have undergone dialysis treatment using GranuFlo and experienced any symptoms listed above, please contact us today for a confidential case evaluation.
At McDivitt Law Firm, we continue our commitment to putting our clients first, and, as always, we welcome the opportunity to help you. Please remember that you should not make any medical decisions without first consulting your doctor.
Call us today to discuss your potential claim in detail. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you through this trying time.