It is well known that medication errors are one of the leading causes of death in the United States, not too far behind conditions like cardiac arrest. The most common cause of medication errors comes from administering the wrong dose.
About one in five prescribing errors comes directly from pharmacists not receiving the proper prescription, while the rest generally stem from not administering the right medication to patients such as specific conditions and other persistent health complications.
However, there are many ways you can help yourself and your doctor prevent a prescription drug error from happening. Here’s a quick list of things you can do.
Pay close attention to what your doctor prescribes
Any time your doctor prescribes a medication, be sure to ask your doctor about the medication itself.
read the label
Be sure to find out how to properly administer the medication. Be aware of any restrictions that may be necessary, such as avoiding other types of medications. Also, make sure you are aware of the side effects that the medication could cause.
Make sure you take the correct dosage.
First, make sure you’re getting the right dose. Then be sure to follow the proper guidelines on how to administer the medication. Avoid measuring with your eyes or using non-precise tools such as a spoon.
follow the schedule
Make sure you are taking the medication at the correct time of day, the required number of times per day, the correct days of the week, and the exact weeks you are supposed to take the medication. Do not skip days or take more than is required, as this will not only compromise treatment, but also put you at risk of worse side effects or even worsening health.
Beware of side effects
If you ever feel that you are experiencing unintended health complications while taking the medicine, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately. This is usually a sign that you have not been prescribed the correct medication or that the treatment may not be enough to treat your health problem. When you do, be sure to also take the medication container with you, or at least the label.
If in doubt, ask your doctor
Your doctor can only do their job properly if they are well informed about your condition. On the one hand, it is your job to properly assess your condition based on the diagnosis and your medical history, but on the other hand, your doctor also needs your opinion. Stay in touch with your doctor, call them if you have any questions about your treatment or the medicines you were taking. if they do not give you a satisfactory answer, get a second opinion from another qualified doctor.
And of course, if all else fails, having a good attorney nearby can be a big help. Contact us if you have a health problem caused by a prescription error.