Hospira, a Pfizer company, is voluntarily recalling lot numbers 79-238-EV, 79-240-EV and 80-088-EV, NDC# 0409-6625-02, of 8.4% Sodium Bicarbonate Injection USP, 50 mEq/50 mL (1 mEq/mL), to the Hospital/Institution level. The recall was initiated due to the presence of particulate matter, confirmed as glass.
The administration of a glass particulate, if present in an intravenous drug, may result in local irritation or swelling in response to the foreign material. More serious potential outcomes would include blockage and clotting in blood vessels, which may be life-threatening if a critical organ is affected. To date, Hospira has not received reports of any adverse events associated with this issue for these lots. The risk is reduced by the possibility of detection, as the label contains a clear statement directing the healthcare professional to visually inspect the product for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.
The 8.4% Sodium Bicarbonate Injection, USP, is a sterile, hypertonic solution of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) in water for administration by the intravenous route. It is indicated for the treatment of metabolic acidosis which may occur in severe renal disease, uncontrolled diabetes, dehydration, severe diarrhea, circulatory insufficiency due to shock, cardiac arrest and severe lactic acidosis. Sodium bicarbonate is also indicated for the treatment of certain drug intoxications.
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8.4% Sodium Bicarbonate Injection, USP, NDC# 0409-6625-02, is packaged in 50 mL glass fliptop vials in a case pack of 4 x 25- 50mL. The affected lots and their expiry dates are indicated in the table below. Product was distributed Nationwide to Wholesalers/Distributors/Hospitals in the United States and Puerto Rico from August 2017 to September 2017.
Hospira has notified its direct customers via a recall letter to arrange for return of any recalled product.
Anyone with an existing inventory of the recalled lots should stop use and distribution and quarantine immediately. Inform Healthcare Professionals in your organization of this recall. For additional assistance, call Stericycle at 1-800-805-3093 between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday.
For clinical inquiries, contact Hospira/Pfizer using the below information.
Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.
This recall is being executed with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.