North Carolina is one of four states that have become a focus of an investigation by federal and state health authorities, after it was discovered in early 2013 that three clinics here administered injections found to contain harmful bacteria and fungi. The injections were supplied by a pharmaceutical compounding manufacturer in Tennessee, which has since voluntarily surrendered its North Carolina license.
The injections of preservative-free methylprednisolone acetate (MPA), manufactured by Main Street Family Pharmacy of Newbern, TN, were used by three NC clinics:
- Carolina Arthritis Center in Pitt County
- Bailey Family Practice Center in Nash County
- Shallote Medical Center in Brunswick County
MPA is used to treat a variety of medical conditions including allergic disorders, skin conditions, ulcerative colitis, arthritis, lupus, psoriasis and breathing disorders. Patients in four states reported adverse reactions to the injections, mainly skin abscesses and abnormal inflammation at the site of the injection.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), patients who are concerned that they might have received an injection with MPA from the pharmacy under investigation should contact their provider to confirm the origin of the MPA product. Because incubation periods for fungal infections can be lengthy, CDC advised patients to remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of infection for several months following a known injection with MPA.
If you are injured by this or any other contaminated pharmaceutical, the first thing to do is to notify health authorities to assist in investigating the problem. Then contact a North Carolina personal injury lawyer to discuss whether you may be compensated for your injuries.