What Should I Do If the Pharmacy Gave Me the Wrong Prescription?

According to U.S. News, busy pharmacists can fill up to 25 prescriptions per hour, and researchers estimate that errors occur in up to 5 percent of those medications. Although most errors are minor and do not cause serious health complications, the occasional mistake can have devastating repercussi

ons.

For example, a label error is typically less serious than an actual drug or dosage error. In some cases, the pharmacist dispenses the correct medication, but the doctor prescribed the wrong drug.

If you sustained an injury or illness as a result of a prescription error, turn to a medical malpractice attorney from The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm. David A. Bowling has more than 30 years of trial experience, and he will help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation with a pharmacy error lawyer in Jackson.

Read on to learn three steps you should take if you received the wrong prescription:

1. Talk to Your Pharmacist

If you are still at the pharmacy when you realize you received the wrong medication, talk to your pharmacist. According to Consumer Reports, a good pharmacy will provide an explanation, an apology, and a full refund.

You should get in the habit of examining your medication before leaving the pharmacy in case an error does occur. It is always better to identify a medication mistake before you actually take it.

2. Call Your Doctor

If you did not realize that you received the wrong medication until after you left the pharmacy and you have already taken it, call your doctor as soon as possible. If you are experiencing any adverse side effects, your doctor may want you to come in for a full health assessment. Otherwise, your physician will advise you on the best way to proceed based on your particular situation.

3. Take a More Proactive Approach to Protect Yourself in the Future

Prescription errors can happen to anyone, and even if your pharmacist assures you that such mistakes will never happen again, there is no way to be certain of that. You can protect yourself from prescription errors by taking a more proactive approach to your health.

For example, every time your doctor gives you a new prescription, make sure you know what it is called and how to pronounce it. If it is a brand name medication, do you know the generic name? When you have a thorough understanding of your medication, including the dosage and administration method, you will be able to spot prescription errors before they cause serious issues.

If your pharmacist gave you the wrong medication or the wrong dosage and you sustained damages as a direct result, a pharmacy error lawyer from The Bowling Christiansen Law Firm can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Call (504) 586-5200 to schedule a consultation with a Jackson medical malpractice attorney. Visit USAttorneys to learn more about medical negligence claims in Mississippi.