Botox and Botox Cosmetics have been given a new warning label in Canada that indicates that the anti-wrinkle drug can spread to other parts of the body. This potential side effect can be fatal. The new label also states that the drug can cause muscle weakness, difficulties in swallowing, pneumonia, and speech disorders.

The muscle relaxant has been licensed in Canada to treat facial nerve disorders and cerebral palsy, but it is much more commonly used to eliminate wrinkles and other facial age lines. Last February, the FDA linked the spread of Botox in the body to both FDA-approved and non-approved applications of the drug.

The new label stems from an investigation performed by Health Canada last October. Five patients died following Botox injections, and more than eight patients experienced severe side effects. The condition was deemed “distant toxin spread” by Health Canada.

The investigation also determined that doctors downplay the risks involved with Botox injections.

Baxter International Inc. has assumed responsibility in the nation-wide heparin contamination that endangered the health of thousands. Though they have admitted fault for their role in the distribution of the defective drug, Baxter denies any part in “deliberate” contamination.

Reports of serious allergic reactions and deaths associated with heparin doses began late in December of 2007. By January, there were sufficient reports of adverse reactions to prompt Baxter to recall about 10 percent of their annual production of heparin.

The contamination was finally linked to heparin manufacturing plants in China last March. Since then, there have been numerous investigations to find the responsible parties, since Chinese drug manufacturing is significantly less regulated than that in the United States.

The defective drug lawyers at Cappolino Dodd  Krebs LLP take on cases of defective drugs and injury caused by negligent companies. Have you been injured due to faulty pharmaceuticals? call our Texas office today.