Although many people take prescription drugs to feel better, some drugs actually can make health problems worse. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, dangerous drugs cause 770,000 injuries and deaths annually. Being proactive can help people stay safe when it comes to taking their medication. Consider a few tips that may help prevent a prescription drug injury.
Tips to Prevent Drug Reactions
Drug reactions can be lessened or even prevented with these tips:
- Use the same pharmacy for all prescriptions. For those who use multiple drugs, this is an added safety measure. The pharmacist can work with patients to avoid drug combinations that may have adverse reactions.
- Keep a list of medications. Many people take multiple prescriptions, and it can be difficult to remember them all at every doctor visit. Instead, keep a list and present it to all doctors involved in the patient’s care so they are aware of any potential interactions.
- Seek care in the event of any unusual symptoms after taking a new medication. A minor symptom can lead to an adverse reaction, so discuss any new symptoms with a doctor promptly.
- Take drugs as prescribed. In order to work effectively, medications need to be taken according to the doctor’s instructions. Some need to be taken at certain times of the day or with food. Don’t ignore these instructions.
- Make sure the prescription is legible. Doctors are notorious for illegible handwriting, but if a patient can’t read it, then the pharmacist may not be able to read it, either. Patients should ask the doctor to clarify what drug to take, or they could take the wrong one and risk prescription drug injury.
If Injured, Gacovino, Lake & Associates in New York Can Help
Dangerous drugs have caused numerous injuries and deaths. Victims should consult an accident lawyer from Gacovino, Lake & Associates if they experience adverse events related to improper prescription or defective drugs. A doctor, pharmacist or the drug manufacturer could be held liable for the injuries, and victims may be able to recover financial compensation. Call (800) 246-4878 for a free consultation.
