Hospira Recalls Caloric Fluid Due to Mold Contamination

A recall has been issued by Hospira, Inc. for Lactated Ringers and 5% Dextrose, a caloric fluid used to restore electrolytes, due to the presence of mold, potentially causing life-threatening injuries. 

The Hospira recall was announced on January 25, after a customer reported finding spore-like material, consistent with mold, in the Lactated Ringers and 5% Dextrose Injection solution.  There have been no illnesses reported in connection to the recalled product.

The product is used as a source of water, electrolytes, calories, or as an alkalizing agent creating substantial risk to patients receiving the product intravenously. Possible health problems that could arise from the use of mold contaminated Lactated Ringers and Dextrose Injections include thrombosis, phlebitis, bacteremia, sepsis, septic shock, endocarditis, and may result in a fatal infection in a large range of patients.

The recalled product was packaged in 1,000 mL flexible containers with lot number 05-019-JT and an expiration date of May 1, 2013. The lot was distributed nationwide between June 2011 and January 2012 to wholesalers/distributors, hospitals and pharmacies.

Mold ingestion can cause serious adverse consequences that may be life threatening. In many cases mold ingestion symptoms will surface within 12-24 hours after exposure, causing abdominal cramps, persistent diarrhea, dehydration, nausea, or an overall upset stomach.

Intravenously ingested mold could also potentially lead to septicemia, which can progress to septic shock causing a sometimes fatal blood stream infection.

In October 2012, another Lactated Ringers and 5 Percent Dextrose Injection recall was issued by  Hospira Inc. after reports indicated that a leak between the cobra cap and fill-tube seal may have been contaminated with mold. Due to the overwrap of the container not being sterile, when the fluid leaked it became trapped between the container and overwrap causing air to flow freely, allowing for potential mold spore growth.

Anyone with the recalled solution in their inventory have been advised to stop use and distribution, immediately quarantine the product and call Stericycle at 1-888-965-5798 between the hours of 8am to 5pm EST Monday through Friday to arrange a return of the product. Hospira has announced there will be a replacement product from other lots available. For any medical inquiries please contact Hospira Medical Communications at 1-800-615-0187.