Do You Take Prescription Meds? 3 Safety Tips from a New Orleans Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Medical malpractice is more common than many people realize. In fact, according to the Washington Post, medical negligence may be the third leading cause of death in the United States.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, medication errors kill at least 365 people per year and injure approximately 1.3 million patients. Those who are lucky enough to survive often face cognitive or physical complications that last a lifetime.

Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to prevent medication mistakes:

1. Ask questions;

2. Read the label on your medications;

3. And disclose information about the medications and supplements you are taking.

If you suffered an injury or illness due to a medical worker’s mistake, contact the The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm. David A. Bowling is a pharmacy error attorney in New Orleans who can assess your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.

Mr. Bowling will help you fight for the maximum compensation. Call (504) 586-5200 today to schedule a consultation. Until then, read on to learn three tips that can help you avoid pharmacy mistakes:

1. Ask Questions

If you are prescribed a medication, ask your doctor and pharmacist these questions:

What is the prescription for, and how long will I need to take it?

What is the best method for taking it?

Are there side effects to expect, and when should I be concerned?

Is there a risk of drug interactions?

2. Read the Label on Your Medications

Pharmacy errors occur for many reasons. Sometimes patients or drugs have similar names, and pharmacists make mistakes. If you receive the wrong medication or a drug that was intended for a different patient, then you could suffer severe complications.

This is why you should read the label on all your medications every time you pick them up. ConFirm your name is correct, the drug name is correct, and the medication has not expired.

3. Disclose Information about the Medications and Supplements You Are Taking

Drugs can have potentially fatal interactions with certain supplements and medications – even over-the-counter meds and vitamins. As such, you should tell your doctor about every supplement and medication you are taking. You should be able to get a detailed list of your medications from your pharmacy.

Although your doctor should be knowledgeable about any drug that he or she prescribes, do not be afraid to get further insight from your pharmacist. Tell your pharmacist about the supplements and meds you are taking, and ask about potential interactions.

If you suffered unexpected side effects from a medication, contact the The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm. David A. Bowling is a medical malpractice attorney in Louisiana who can guide you through the claims process.

Mr. Bowling has more than 30 years of trial experience, and his Firm is AV-rated under Martindale-Hubbell’s peer review rating system. Call (504) 586-5200 today to schedule a consultation.