– New Labeling to Further Assist Clinicians in Averting Medical Errors with ''High-Alert'' Medication –

APP Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq:APPX) today announced the launch of enhanced labeling for its line of Heparin Sodium Injection, USP. The labels and cap colors for APP’s heparin have incorporated clearly differentiating color combinations since the company began marketing the product in 1998. Also, the current product’s labels include bar codes at the individual unit-of-use. APP’s new labeling represents further enhancements to help differentiate Heparin Sodium from other heparin products, including Heparin Lock Flush Solution, USP. As part of the company’s long-standing commitment to patient care and in response to concerns regarding a higher risk of medication errors associated with heparin, the new labeling will further help healthcare professionals quickly identify the correct drug and ultimately administer the proper dose.

APP is the sole supplier of therapeutic heparin vials to the U.S. market because drug impurities have forced the other U.S. supplier of heparin vials to withdraw its product from the market. APP continues to work closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that an uninterrupted and safe supply of heparin of the highest quality is available for U.S. patients.

According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP), heparin is a high-alert medication. These medications are defined as bearing a heightened risk of causing significant patient harm when used in error. ISMP encourages healthcare professionals to employ extra safeguards to help reduce the risk of errors.

“As a manufacturer of heparin, we consider it our responsibility to help ensure the safest possible use of our products,” said Tom Silberg, CEO, APP Pharmaceuticals.