NaturaLyte and GranuFlo are used in dialysis treatments for patients who are suffering chronic and acute renal (kidney) failure. GranuFlo gained wide popularity after its release in 2003. However, a number potentially fatal GranuFlo side effects have been reported in patients. In 2010, Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) reported close to 1,000 cases of cardiac arrest as side effects of both NaturaLyte and GranuFlo. Other side effects of both include metabolic alkalosis and hypotension.
How GranuFlo is supposed to work:
GranuFlo is a powdered acid concentrate that is mixed with other components to form a solution called dialysate. NaturaLyte is much the same, but it arrives at the dialysis center in liquid form. Dialysate is then used in a dialysis treatment. Dialysis removes the patient’s blood and filters it, the blood is then returned to the body. Treatment accomplishes the function that is usually performed by the kidneys in a healthy individual. Patients with kidney disease suffer problems that make them unable to filter the blood naturally.
Patients who are in renal failure typically experience increased acid levels in their blood. This is due to the inability of the kidneys to naturally filter out bodily acids. Dialysis uses bicarbonate to neutralize the blood acid levels of a patient. Bicarbonate levels must, however, be carefully monitored during a dialysis treatment because excessive bicarbonate can cause life-threatening GranuFlo side effects.
Metabolic Alkalosis
Metabolic alkalosis is a GranuFlo side effect that indicates excess levels of base, or alkali, in the blood. During this condition, the pH balance of a patient is elevated beyond normal levels. Side effects from metabolic alkalosis can cause cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke. All of these conditions can cause death.
Noticeable side effects of metabolic alkalosis can include:
- Confusion.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Muscle twitching, and prolonged spasms.
- Tingling and numbness in the hands, feet or face.
If you or a family member were treated with either GranuFlo or NaturaLyte, we encourage you to call the office of Frank Charles Miranda TODAY at 813.254.2637 to discuss the pursuit of a dialysis lawsuit.