Thu Sep 26 15:02:29 UTC 2024: ## Gilead Recalls COVID-19 Drug Veklury After Glass Particle Found in Vial
**[City, State] -** Gilead Sciences has issued a voluntary recall of its COVID-19 antiviral medication Veklury (remdesivir) after discovering a glass particle in a single vial. The company is urging healthcare facilities to stop using and return any vials from lot # 47035CFA, which was distributed nationwide in the U.S. starting July 16, 2024.
The presence of glass particles in injectable medications poses a serious health risk. While Gilead has not received any reports of adverse events related to this recall, the company warns that such particles can cause local irritation and swelling, and potentially travel through blood vessels to vital organs, leading to blockages and complications like stroke or even death.
According to medical experts, the risk of glass contamination in medications is a known issue, particularly with glass ampoules. The International Journal for Quality in Health Care notes that glass particles can be injected into the body during intramuscular or intravenous administration, posing potential harm to patients. These particles can lead to various complications including pulmonary emboli, inflammation, and even liver fibrosis.
While plastic containers have been proposed as a safer alternative, they are not compatible with all medications and may cause adverse reactions. This leaves ampoule breaking methods as the primary process in preparing medication injections, highlighting the need for rigorous quality control measures to prevent such incidents.
Gilead is actively contacting distributors and customers to facilitate the return of the affected Veklury lot. The company is urging healthcare professionals to adhere to the recall notice and ensure the safety of their patients.
First Piper 