A recent tragic case of a wrong prescription given to a patient illustrates the potential dangers and long-term consequences of Maryland pharmacy errors. According to a local news report covering the incident, the patient was suffering from an eye infection in November 2018, and he was prescribed Tobramycin-Dexamethasone, which are eye drops to treat infections. However, after five days of putting the drops into his eyes, the patient realized that it was not the right medication.
Looking at the back of the box given to him, he noticed that it said “for ears only.” As it turns out, the pharmacy had given him Neomycin and Polymyxin B Sulfates and Hydrocortisone Otic Solution, which are ear drops, used to treat ear infections. These drops should never be put into eyes and can have long-term consequences.
After discovering the mistake, the patient went to the emergency room and saw an emergency ophthalmologist. At this point, his eyes were swelling severely and were bright red. Unfortunately, almost a year later, the patient is still suffering from the error. The glands behind his eyelids are clogged up, forming pimples and causing him pain. He has been taking medication to treat this condition and may require surgery in the future.
The patient told local news reporters that he just wants the pain to go away. Five days of using the wrong medication in his eyes has led to almost a year of pain and suffering, and the patient said that he just wants to have the surgery and move on with his life. The pharmacy responsible for the error has apologized to the patient but has done nothing else to help him recover from this tragic accident.
When pharmacy errors such as this one happen in Maryland, state law allows the victim to sue the pharmacist and the pharmacy responsible for the mistake and the harm that it caused. Through a civil negligence claim, patients in similar positions may be able to recover compensation for the medical bills incurred in addressing the error, the cost of resulting surgeries, and the pain and suffering endured by the victim. These lawsuits, while they cannot undo the damage done, can help the victims do what the patient in this case desperately wants to do: move on with their lives.
Need a Maryland Pharmacy Error Lawyer?
Using or taking the wrong medication, even just once, can cause years of pain and suffering and may also result in significant medical bills. When pharmacy mistakes happen, victims and their families may be able to hold the pharmacy responsible through a civil negligence claim. Our attorneys at Lebowitz & Mzhen, Personal Injury Lawyers, can help Maryland plaintiffs with these cases. Due to our decades of experience and over $55 million recovered for our clients, you can trust that your case is in good hands with us. Our dedicated attorneys will work hard to zealously defend your rights and attempt to level the playing field against large pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies. Contact us today to learn more by calling 800-654-1949 or completing our online form.