3 Dangers of Prescription Drug Errors – New Orleans Medical Malpractice Attorney Investigates

Although modern pharmaceuticals save countless lives, prescription errors cause illness, injuries or death to at least 1.5 million people each year, according to the National Patient Safety Foundation. Of these, approximately 1.3 million patients experience life-threatening complications.

Prescribing the wrong drug or the wrong dosage can be a fatal mistake. Patients who survive prescription errors often face lifelong consequences. If you or a loved one was the victim of a prescription mistake, then you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and other damages.

If the incident happened in Louisiana, contact the The Bowling Law Firm. David A. Bowling is a New Orleans pharmacy error lawyer who can guide you through the claims process.

The Bowling Law Firm is AV-rated under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit https://medical-malpractice.usattorneys.com/louisiana/ to learn more about medical malpractice claims in Louisiana.

Here are three consequences of prescription drug errors:

1. Health Complications

Health complications are the primary concern for victims of prescription errors. The exact effects will depend on the type of drug, the amount taken and other factors.

A mistake with opioids, for example, can cause mood swings, choking, cognitive impairment, menstrual interruptions, infertility, difficulty breathing, coma and even death. Tranquilizers and sedatives can cause seizures and memory issues. Stimulants increase body temperature and cause abnormal heartbeat, cardiovascular complications and deadly convulsions.

The wrong medicines do not always cause immediate reactions. Some can damage organs and other systems over time. Always check the medicines that you receive against the original prescription, and check your name, address and other details.

2. Addiction

Many prescription drugs are highly addictive, as the U.S. National Library of Medicine explains. If taken unnecessarily or at high doses, the risk of addiction increases.

Being physically dependent on a drug causes uncontrollable cravings. Some patients commit crimes to fund their addictions.

Addicts may also suffer withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the drug, these may include severe shaking, sweating, nausea and anxiety. Leg spasticity, bone pain, vomiting and insomnia are common withdrawal symptoms of opioids. Stimulants can cause sleep issues, fatigue and depression. If withdrawing from tranquilizers and sedatives, the consequences may be deadly.

3. Cognitive and Physical Decline

Some prescription drugs interfere with cognitive and physical abilities. You may suffer these side effects if you take the wrong medicine. Patients may notice a performance decline at school and work. Some victims lose their jobs, which can lead to overwhelming debt.

Medical malpractice is a complicated area of personal-injury law. A successful outcome often requires extensive evidence, independent medical examinations and expert testimonies. A pharmacy error lawyer can guide you through the claims process and help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your interests.

If you or a loved one was the victim of a pharmaceutical mistake, contact the The Bowling Law Firm. As a New Orleans medical malpractice attorney, Mr. Bowling can handle the legal side of your claim so you can focus on recovery. He has more than 30 years of trial experience. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation.