For patients with diabetes, an insulin pump allows for management of their diabetes, and is a discreet, welcome alternative to daily injections. Most insulin pumps work in conjunction with an infusion set to ensure that the insulin from the pump gets to the user. Inserted just under the skin, a very thin plastic tube (stainless steel or Teflon cannula) is joined together by a plastic connector. This piece is secured on a patch that sticks to the skin at the site, keeping the cannula in place.

Without question—the amount of insulin and the timing of its delivery is critical to patients with diabetes. For instance, when there is a defect in how air pressure is vented, an improper amount of insulin is sent to the patient. In other cases, a defect in the control buttons of the device makes it impossible for users to control the settings of their insulin pump. In turn, a defective battery cap may cause a pump to stop sending insulin altogether. When insulin pumps and infusion sets fail to do their job, patients may experience hyperglycemia (too much glucose), hypoglycemia (too little glucose), as well as other injuries and even death.

For many that have been injured by a defective insulin pump or infusion set, they have alleged that manufacturers were negligent, did not issue proper warnings and that the overall design of the device was defective. Even so, if you or someone you love have been injured or has died as a result of a defective insulin pump or infusion set, you need to know your legal options. The Harman Law Firm represents clients across the country that have been injured by dangerous and defective drugs and medical devices. You may be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering in the wake of your injury.

For a free, no obligation consultation with the personal injury and defective medical device lawyers at the Harman Law Firm, contact us today.

Serious Risks Associated With Defective Insulin Pumps And Infusion Sets

Used to normalize blood sugar levels, insulin is a lifesaver for individuals with diabetes. Yet, it must be administered in the proper dosages to benefit those using it. Thus, when an insulin pump or infusion set does not function properly, failing to send the right amount of insulin, users may experience serious health risks.

Too much insulin in the bloodstream causes cells to absorb more glucose from the blood, while the liver produces less glucose. This results in hypoglycemia, which is when glucose levels are dangerously low. Individuals may experience the following:

• Clamminess and chills
• Headaches, dizziness or confusion
• Anxiety, tremors
• Hunger
• Irritability
• Blurred vision
• Irregular heartbeat

While the above-mentioned effects are mild, if blood sugar levels continue to drop, individuals can suffer insulin shock (diabetic shock). Symptoms include:

• Problems concentrating
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
• Death

When there’s not enough insulin administered, the body’s blood sugar levels are dangerously high, which can result in a diabetic coma (ketoacidosis) or death.

When an insulin pump or infusion set has proved defective, the risk posed to diabetics is severe and can be life threatening. This is why it is imperative to contact the personal injury and defective device attorneys at the Harman Law Firm if you or someone you love have experienced injury or have been hospitalized due to too much or too little insulin being delivered. You need to know your legal options before moving forward with your potential claim.

Our attorneys believe that every person has the right to justice when dangerous and defective drugs and medical devices have injured them. For a free initial consultation, contact the Harman Law Firm today.