Prescription medications can be lifesaving. However, when confused with other drugs, a drug can be deadly. Maybe it’s because of a mistake on the part of the pharmacist, maybe the doctor’s handwriting was illegible, or maybe it was something else entirely. Whatever it is, confusing medications that sound or look the same isn’t uncommon.
There are specific things you should do if you were injured by a dangerous drug in Pennsylvania. Let’s start with the first step. The following reviews some of the most commonly confused drug types, and what you should do if you’ve been the victim of a medication error that led to harm.
Adderall vs. Inderal
Adderall is a stimulant that’s used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); Inderal, on the other hand, is a medication that’s is a beta-blocker used to treat high blood pressure. Inderal can cause blood pressure to drop to a dangerously low level, and is cautioned against use for those with the following.
- Diabetes
- Liver disease
- Certain allergies
Adderall, on the other hand, can lead to psychological issues when taken in conjunction with alcohol, and can cause adverse physical symptoms as well.
Paxil vs. Taxol
Paxil is an antidepressant medication that rhymes with the similar sounding Taxol. The former is used to treat a slew of mental health disorders, but as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor, carries a number of potential health complications and should not be taken without a doctor’s orders.
Taxol is just as dangerous of a medication for those it is not prescribed, if not more so. Taxol is a chemotherapy drug that is used to treat cancer patients. It can cause irregular menstruation and mouth sores, among other things.
Amaryl vs. Reminyl
Amaryl vs. Reminyl are two medications that serve important purposes that can have life-changing effects. Amaryl is used to help control blood sugar levels in those with diabetes; Reminyl is used to treat dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease. When a patient suffering from either—diabetes or Alzheimer’s—doesn’t receive the proper medication, they may experience excessive suffering or harm as a result.
Commonly Confused Medications and What to Do if it Happens to You
The drug mistakes named above are just a few of many. You can read the full list of commonly confused medications by referring to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices list.
When a medication error occurs that causes patient harm, someone needs to be held liable for damages. At Cordisco & Saile LLC, our attorneys can analyze your case to discover who is to blame for your medication mix-up, and help you file a lawsuit to recover damages.
If you’re ready to learn more about medical malpractice laws and your rights as a patient, visit our website or call us today at 215-642-2335.
