MORE: " A drug used to prevent blood loss during heart bypass surgery has been linked to higher risks of serious side effects, including kidney problems, heart attacks and strokes, health officials warned doctors and patients Wednesday. The Food and Drug Administration said it was evaluating the safety of Trasylol, formally known as aprotinin, in light of two studies published in January that link its use to the problems. The drug's maker, Germany-based Bayer AG, said the drug is safe and effective when used correctly in artery bypass graft surgery patients. Bayer added in a statement that it will continue working with regulatory authorities 'in all countries where Trasylol is marketed to address questions regarding product safety.' The company previously said it had contacted officials in the United States, Canada, Australia and Europe. Trasylol is the only FDA-approved drug to stanch the loss of blood and prevent the need for blood transfusions in surgeries to bypass clogged coronary arteries. The FDA recommended that doctors monitor patients for toxicity, particularly to the kidneys, heart or central nervous system, following use of the drug. They also should consider limiting the drug's use to cases in which the need to reducing blood loss outweighs any risks......."