Pharmacists must complete years of training before they can enter their profession. Unfortunately, prescription errors still happen – and they kill 7,000 people each year. Patients who are lucky enough to survive often suffer physical or cognitive problems due to adverse side effects and drug interactions. Although there are several factors that can lead to a medical mistake, most cases involve human errors such as:
- Confusing patients’ names;
- Dispensing the incorrect medication to a patient;
- Dispensing the wrong medication dosage; or
- Dispensing expired medication.
If you were injured or lost a family member due to a pharmaceutical mistake, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A personal-injury lawyer in Monroe will help you claim compensation for medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free consultation.
Steps Patients Can Take to Prevent Pharmaceutical Mistakes
Pharmacists and doctors must follow strict regulations when they prescribe and dispense medications. These rules are in place to prevent medication mistakes, but all it takes is a minor procedural error or oversight to cause a problem. Fortunately, patients can reduce the risk of medication errors by taking these steps:
- Tell your doctor and pharmacist about any over-the-counter meds, prescriptions or supplements you are taking;
- Check the label on your prescription to make sure your name, the drug’s name and the dosage are correct; and
- If your doctor handwrites your prescription, make sure it is legible.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Ask These 6 Questions before You Take a New Medication
Asking the right questions will also reduce the likelihood of prescription-related complications. Before you take a new medication, ask your pharmacist and doctor these questions:
- When should I expect to see the results of this medication?
- What are the generic and brand names of the medication?
- Should I avoid certain foods, supplements or medications while I’m taking this drug?
- At what times of the day should I take the medication? When can I stop taking it?
- What will happen if I overdose or forget to take a dose?
- What side effects does the drug cause?
Cap on Medical Malpractice Damages in Louisiana
Like many other states, Louisiana has a cap on medical malpractice awards. This cap applies to each claim – not to each claimant. The cap includes lost wages and non-economic damages; however, there is no cap on future medical expenses. Unfortunately, even the most diligent patients can fall victim to negligent doctors and pharmacists.
If you suffered an illness due to a medication mistake in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A personal-injury lawyer in Monroe will help you claim the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other damages. Our legal team has been representing the injured for more than 30 years.
We will help you avoid mistakes such as making recorded statements, overlooking certain damages or signing a general release. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free initial consultation.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
