Covidien Initiates Voluntary Recall of Pre-Filled Syringes Containing Heparin

MANSFIELD, Massachusetts – March 28, 2008 - Covidien, formerly Tyco Healthcare, was recently notified by its supplier, Scientific Protein Laboratories LLC (SPL), of a nation-wide recall of Heparin Sodium USP active pharmaceutical ingredient. The voluntary recall affects the following 32 lots manufactured and distributed by Covidien in the United States.

Covidien began recalling the lots today as a precautionary measure. This product recall was initiated due to a notification received from the supplier, SPL, disclosing that two lots of Heparin Sodium USP Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient acquired by Covidien had a heparin-like contaminant. To date, Covidien has not received any adverse event reports related to this issue. Although a very small product line for Covidien, the Company is committed to following the direction of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding this matter.

The FDA has received reports of serious injuries and/or deaths in patients who have been administered Heparin injectable products of other companies containing this contaminant. As indicated in the notification issued by the supplier SPL, typical symptoms include anaphylactic-like reactions such as low blood pressure, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced in the U.S. with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

• Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
• Regular Mail: use postage-paid FDA form 3500 available at: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm. Mail to: MedWatch 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787
• Fax: 1-800-FDA-0178

Customers who have product in their possession from the recalled product lots should discontinue use immediately. Patients reporting any problems that may be related to the use of this product should be advised to contact a physician. Customers with questions about the return of recalled product should contact the Return Coordinator at 1-800-346-7197, ext. 8677, between 8:30am – 5:00pm (ET), Monday through Friday.