Tennessee First in Country to Revoke NECC License Permanently
The recent outbreak of fungal meningitis, allegedly caused by tainted injectable epidural steroids, has led Tennessee to take action. Monday, October 15, 2012, the New England Compounding Center (NECC) lost its license to distribute in Tennessee.
The license revocation, an action taken by the Tennessee Board of Pharmacy, has permanently banned the NECC from ever selling its products in the state again.
The state is the hardest hit in the United States. So far, 53 Tennesseans have become sick, and six deaths have occurred as a result of fungal meningitis. And the number is expected to continue to grow over the coming weeks.
Tennessee is the only state that has taken permanent action against the NECC. New Hampshire, Virginia, Massachusetts and North Carolina have suspended, but not revoked the NECC license.
It is reported that Barry Cadden, founder of the NECC, is prepared to surrender his right to dispense in Tennessee, but some wonder if they could pull his license, not waiting for him to voluntarily give it up.
It is also suspected that other injectable drugs compounded by the NECC are causing further illness. These drugs include common drugs used in eye and heart surgery. All pharmaceuticals from the company have been recalled.
The first indication of trouble with the NECC pharmaceuticals began in Tennessee at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. April Petit, an internist there, reported that a patient was not responding to meningitis treatment to the Tennessee Department of Health. The patient passed away on September 29, and on October 1, the Department publicized their concerns.
Since graduating magna cum laude in 2005 from the University of Memphis School of Law, Thomas has helped make a difference in the lives of victims of serious personal injury, wrongful death, and professional negligence. Thomas has extensive trial experience in both state and federal court. Among other victories in the courtroom, Thomas obtained several impressive jury verdicts and settlements
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