Bismacine/Chromacine

Audience: All Healthcare professionals and consumers

[Posted 07/21/2006] FDA notified healthcare professionals and consumers not to use an injectable product called Bismacine, also known as Chromacine. Bismacine is not a pharmaceutical and has not been approved to treat any condition; however, it is being prescribed or administered by doctors of "alternative health" to treat Lyme disease.

This product contains high amounts of bismuth, a heavy metal that is used in some medications taken by mouth to treat Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers. However, Bismacine is not approved in any form for use by injection. The FDA is investigating one report of a death and several reports of injury related to the administration of Bismacine. Individuals who believe they have suffered adverse events from receiving Bismacine should seek medical attention. Possible effects of bismuth poisoning include cardio-vascular collapse and kidney failure.

[July 21, 2006 - Press Release - FDA]

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