Many adults in New York depend on prescription drugs to manage their health conditions. When a medication is prescribed by a physician and dispensed by a pharmacy, the expectation is that it is safe, provided the dosage directions are followed. However, certain prescription medications can unfortunately lead to serious and unforeseen side effects. If you experience this, you might wonder about your legal options. Continue reading to understand these legal issues and discover how our experienced Queens Personal Injury Attorneys can help you pursue the justice you are entitled to.
How Do I Distinguish Between Regular and Dangerous Side Effects?
Understanding the difference between common and serious side effects is crucial for patient safety. Mild side effects are generally predictable and manageable, whereas severe reactions are harmful, potentially life-threatening, and demand immediate medical care.
Certain side effects are expected, predictable, and often detailed explicitly in the medication’s packaging information. They are usually minor or moderate and frequently lessen as your body adapts to the drug. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea or diarrhea
- Dry mouth or changes in appetite
- Drowsiness, insomnia, or dizziness
- Mild skin rash or itching
For these minor symptoms, you can consult your pharmacist or doctor for management tips. They rarely require immediate cessation of the medication.
Adverse drug reactions pose serious health risks. They can be life-threatening and necessitate immediate medical intervention, often including discontinuation of the drug. Urgent warning signs include:
- Anaphylazis
- Birth defects
- Chest pain, or a heartbeat that is rapid or irregular
- Sudden dizziness, confusion, or fainting
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
- Persistent vomiting, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Skin blistering or peeling
- Sudden weakness or numbness
- Suicidal ideation
If you experience any severe or potentially life-threatening symptoms, dial 911 or proceed to the nearest ER for urgent medical attention.
Who Can Face Liability for a Defective Drug?
Liability for injuries caused by a defective drug can be broad, potentially encompassing several parties beyond the manufacturer. Depending on who contributed ot the defect, such as a design flaw, a production error, an insufficient warning, or an incorrect dosage, responsible parties may include distributors, pharmacies, physicians, testing laboratories, and even sales representatives.
The specific defendant often depends on the source of the injury. For instance, manufacturers are typically liable for issues related to a drug’s design or testing, whereas healthcare providers may be held responsible for prescribing errors or for failing to adequately inform patients of potential risks.
At The Law Offices of George Poulos, we are dedicated to securing compensation and justice for clients harmed by dangerous prescription medications. Our legal team builds a strong case by meticulously reviewing medical records and other evidence. We handle every step of the legal process, including negotiations and representing your interests in court. If a prescription drug’s side effect has harmed you, please don’t hesitate to contact our firm to schedule a consultation.