Safety & New Warnings For Corticosteroid Injections

On April 23, 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning that the injection of corticosteroids into a patient’s epidural space of the spine “may result in rare but serious adverse events, including loss of vision, stroke, paralysis, and death.” Such corticosteroids injections are very often given to patients that suffer with neck and back pain, as well as pain that radiates into the patient’s arms and legs. These injections are very often utilized by physicians treating patients that have been involved in motor vehicle accidents and other traumatic events.

The FDA is now requiring that the labels of injectable corticosteroids contain a Warning that describes the serious risks. Although the FDA acknowledges that the use of injectable corticosteroids are commonly used for the purpose of reducing a patient’s swelling or inflammation, the FDA advises that the effectiveness and safety of the drugs for such use has not been established. Furthermore, the FDA has not approved injectable corticosteroids for such use. The FDA has advised that it is starting to investigate this serious safety issue. The FDA plans to convene an Advisory Committee meeting comprised of experts in late 2014.     

If you have any questions or concerns about your medical malpractice, or personal injury issues, please contact the experienced attorneys at Snyder & Sarno at (973) 274-5200. 

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• Fda Warnings
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