Chicago Psychiatrist has Troubling Record with Clozapine
The Chicago Tribune recently reported that Dr. Michael Reinstein, a doctor who frequently gives psychiatric care in Chicago-area nursing homes and mental health facilities, has developed a troubling record. This record involves providing care with an extremely risky drug: Clozapine. Clozapine is a very powerful drug that carries five FDA black box warnings, the strongest warnings the FDA can issue.
According to the Tribune, Mr. Reinstein, exhibits an “unusually heavy reliance” on this powerful drug, and this usage has been linked to at least three deaths in his patients. Records indicate that the doctor is getting government reimbursement for his treatment of patients. Although Dr. Reinstein defends his use of Clozapine as the most effective in its class for treatment of schizophrenic patients, autopsy and court records indicate that three patients under his care died from Clozapine poisoning.
Clozapine is an especially dangerous drug. The FDA’s black box warnings for it include enlargement of the heart, rapid drops in blood pressure, and increased seizure risk. The drug is only approved for actively suicidal patients, or schizophrenic patients who do not improve when using medications with less severe side effects. The drug has not proven safe to use in pregnant patients, however Dr. Reinstein has prescribed it for these patients as well.
If you or a loved one has suffered as a result of being prescribed Clozapine inappropriately, contact the lawyers at the Pintas Law Firm immediately. Our personal injury law firm will provide you with a free legal consultation and explain your legal rights.