Recently the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert to healthcare providers regarding prescription drugs containing more than 325 milligrams of acetaminophen (per dosing unit, such as tablet or capsule). The risk of injury to the liver is believed to be greater than any benefit provided by a high dose of acetaminophen.
Too much acetaminophen can cause liver failure, which may necessitate the need for a liver transplant. But an overdose can also be deadly.
Back in January 2011, the FDA issued a request that by January 14, 2014, prescription combination drugs (such as Tylenol), no longer contain more than 325 milligrams in their tablets or capsules. Although more than half of the drug manufacturers have met these standards, there are still many other prescription medications available to consumers that have not.
Acetaminophen has also been linked to a condition called Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a skin rash that can become life-threatening. It was just a few months ago that drug companies were required to add a warning in their packaging concerning this potential health risk.
Dangerous Drug Liability
When drug manufacturers don’t comply with requirements—such as changing/restricting ingredients in their product or providing a warning regarding serious side effects—they could be liable for injuries or death caused by their drug. But it’s also possible to hold other medical professionals liable for malpractice.
Let’s say a physician knows of a risk when prescribing a drug to a patient and doesn’t disclose it. If taking the drug causes injury or death then that doctor could possibly be held liable.
Many don’t know that a pharmacist can be held liable for medical malpractice. Or if a patient has a prescription filled at the pharmacy and the pharmacist is aware of the potential risk in mixing medications and nothing is said about it, this may lead to the pharmacist being liable. Malpractice and product liability claims usually deal with high restitution and so are often strongly contested by the accused party or parties. Hiring a law firm to ensure your rights are upheld can save time and money. Get a free case review.
