Guidant is voluntarily advising physicians about important safety information regarding certain pacemaker devices. The company alerted the FDA, which could lead to recalls.
Among the devices in question are PULSAR MAX, PULSAR, DISCOVERY, MERIDIAN, PULSAR MAX II, DISCOVERY II, VIRTUS PLUS II, INTELIS II, and CONTAK TR, any of which that were manufactured between November 25, 1997 and October 26, 2000.
Guidant had some similar trouble in the last month or so when it had to recall 50,000 defibrillators that were already implanted in people, after two people died.
About a week after that, the company announced that it was advising physicians against using other later, more sophisticated models of some of its defibrillators.
“The health and safety of patients is paramount,” stated Ronald W. Dollens, president and CEO, Guidant Corporation. “Our innovative technologies have saved and improved millions of lives. Guidant works diligently to create the most reliable products and services, enhance patient outcomes, and limit adverse events to patients.”
Guidant is advising patients to seek medical attention immediately if they notice shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness or a prolonged fast heart rate.
Believe it or not, Guidant stock fell this morning, sinking $1.10, or 1.6%, to $68.35 according to MarketWatch. Johnson & Johnson is acquiring Guidant for about $25.4 billion. Its stock actually went up six cents this morning.
Chris is a staff writer for Murdok. Visit Murdok for the latest ebusiness news.
