GranuFlo and NaturaLyte are brand names of dialysis concentrates manufactured by Fresenius Medical Care. During dialysis, a machine filters toxins and waste from a patient’s blood stream since their kidneys are no longer to adequately do this on their own. GranuFlo powder concentrate and its liquid counterpart, NaturaLyte, are in a class of drugs called dialysates which are used to neutralize the build-up of acid in a patient’s blood.
Unfortunately, GranuFlo and NaturaLyte have been linked to an increased risk of cardiac arrests and death. An internal company memo from November 4, 2011, reported that more than 900 patients had experienced heart attacks at Fresenius clinics during the previous year and concluded that these heart attacks were caused by an excessive level of bicarbonate in a patient’s blood stream as a result of these medications.
After investigating the harmful effects of these products, the Federal Food and Drug Administration issued a Class I recall of GranuFlo and NaturaLyte on March 29, 2012. Lawsuits have subsequently been filed, and consolidated in the United States District Court of Massachusetts. These lawsuits allege that Fresenius was aware of the dangers of GranuFlo and NaturaLyte and failed to share this information with the public.
If you or a loved one suffered harmful effects while taking GranuFlo or NaturaLyte, please contact the experienced attorneys at THE RUTH LAW TEAM, at (888) 783-8378 to discuss your legal rights.
