Wrong Medication Prescribed

When you go to the dentist you are requested to fill out many forms. One of the most important forms that needs to be filled out properly and accurately is the health questionnaire. The health questionnaire form should include a section that allows you to report any medications that you are taking as well as an any allergies to medications.

After the health questionnaire is filled out it is imperative that the dentist read it thoroughly. The dentist should then review it with the patient to confirm that all relevant information has been reported and is accurate. Further, when you return to the dentist for a periodic exam or treatment, the health questionnaire needs to be updated. It is incumbent upon the dentist to ask you if there has been any change in your medical history, recent surgeries and whether you are taking any new or different medications.

Wrong Antibiotics or Pain Medication

Dentists often prescribe antibiotics and pain medication for their patients. However, because the dentist is busy and not paying attention, the dentists fails to check whether the patient has any drug allergies and/or is taking another medication that may cause a serious side effect. If a patient is prescribed and takes the wrong medication, it may result in organ failure, respiratory distress or even death.

These serious injuries are avoidable if the dentist takes his time and  thoroughly reviews the patient’s health questionnaire and confirms with the patient that there are no allergies or drug interferences. No matter who prescribes you a medication, you should always check with your pharmacy to make sure that it is safe for you to take.

If you believe that you were prescribed the wrong medication and were seriously injured, you need to call attorney, Brendan F. Mulligan, D. M.D., Esquire.