By: LISA R. WILSON

The FDA is notifying health care professionals and patients that Covidien (Tyco Healthcare Group LP) is recalling one lot of ReliOn single-use, disposable, hypodermic syringes (with permanently affixed hypodermic needles) due to possible mislabeling. The use of these syringes may lead patients to receive an overdose of as much as 2.5 times the intended dose, which may cause serious health consequences, such as hypoglycemia and even death.

The recall applies to product Lot Number 813900: ReliOn 1cc, 31-gauge, 100 units for use with U-100 insulin. Only ReliOn syringes from this lot number and labeled as 100 units for use with U-100 insulin are the subject of the recall.

These Covidien syringes are sold only by Wal-Mart at Wal-Mart stores and Sam’s Clubs under the ReliOn name. Wal-Mart requests that all users of ReliOn syringes return those labeled as 100 units for use with U-100 insulin from Lot Number 813900 to their local Wal-Mart store or Sam’s Club pharmacy. Customers will be provided with a replacement product. Wal-Mart sold the syringes at Wal-Mart stores and Sam’s Clubs from Aug. 1, 2008, until Oct. 8, 2008.

Consumers and health care professionals who suspect they have the recalled product may also contact Covidien at 866-780-5436 or www.relion.com/recall for more information. A person injured by a defective or dangerous product may be eligible to file a lawsuit for product liability. Damages can be recovered under one of the following categories: strict products liability; negligence or breach of warranty. To learn more, contact a qualified personal injury attorney in your area today.