Medication Errors
Recent studies suggest that more than 200 million medication errors occur in the NHS every year.
And although three in four errors are unlikely to result in harm, some medication errors can cause irreversible damage or even death. Approximately 700 deaths per year are classed as ‘avoidable adverse drug reactions’.
Medication errors can occur because of negligent prescribing of medication by a GP, or because of dispensing errors by a pharmacist.
Minor symptoms might include temporary dizziness or sickness, but in some circumstances, prescription errors can result in long-term damage to vital organs, particularly the kidneys, which can have serious, long-lasting implications.
Examples of medication error claims:
Prescription errors:
- Incorrect dosage
- Incorrect medication either because of misdiagnosis or unsuitability for a patient
- Incompatible medication prescribed to a patient with existing medication needs
- Adult dosage prescribed to a child
- Patient allergy
- Unchecked repeat prescriptions
Dispensing errors:
- Medication given to the wrong patient
- Labelling errors
- Incorrect dosage dispensed
Our specialist team of medical negligence solicitors can help you understand why you may have suffered a preventable injury caused by a medication error. We will explore the restorative treatments available and pursue prescription error claims for you.
If you or a loved one has suffered due to a medication error, our experienced personal injury claims solicitors are here to help. Whether caused by negligent prescribing or dispensing errors, we understand the serious, long-lasting consequences these mistakes can have. Our team is committed to securing the compensation you deserve and providing expert guidance through every step of your personal injury claim.
Call us on 01603 214 220 to find out more.

How we
can help you
Medical Negligence can have a wide range of effects, many of which may not be obvious immediately after an accident. With specialist accreditations with Action Against Medical Accidents (AvMA) and the Law Society, our team has represented victims in a wide range of cases.
To find out more about our expertise, please call:
Medication Contraindicated
Mr C had a heart condition and had been treated for renal failure. He developed gout and the GP prescribed medication without checking it was contraindicated in view of his other conditions. He suffered renal failure and hearing loss as a result. Sara Westwood settled his claim in the sum of £300,000.
Incorrect Dosage
Mr S was prescribed Warfarin, a blood-thinning drug. In error, the pharmacy prescribed tablets of 5mg when it should have been 1mg so he was taking 5 times the recommended dose and had been for some time prior to collapsing. He was admitted to hospital with internal bleeding and organ failure. The claim was settled for £10,000 by Sara Westwood.
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