The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently are investigating multiple instances of simulated intravenous (IV) saline products being administered to patients. These products are not sterile and should not be injected in humans or animals.
Wallcur’s simulated IV saline solution, Practi-0.9 percent sodium chloride solution, was shipped to medical clinics, surgical centers, and urgent care facilities in numerous states, including North Carolina. In some instances, this product was administered to patients. Adverse events have been associated with these incidents, including multiple hospitalizations.
Wallcur initiated a voluntary recall of Practi-0.9 percent sodium chloride solutions on January 7, 2015. NC DPH has contacted all facilities identified as having received these products.
Read the Health Alert, which outlines what clinicians can do to ensure simulated saline is not administered to patients and what to do if you suspect it has been.