Can i claim compensation if ive had an allergic reaction to a prescribed medication

Recent studies have suggested that more than 200 million medication errors occur every year in the NHS, and whilst three in four of these are unlikely to result in harm to patients, some errors can cause allergic reactions, irreversible damage or even death.

Hundreds of deaths every year are classed as ‘avoidable adverse drug reactions’.

Can I claim compensation if I’ve had an allergic reaction to a prescribed medication?

Prescription errors unfortunately do occur, and one of the more serious errors is when a healthcare professional prescribes a patient a medicine that causes an allergic reaction.

In most cases, your GP, doctor, dentist or nurse will have thoroughly checked your medical background, including any known allergies, new allergies or previous allergic reactions to medication, and will prescribe accordingly.

However, if a healthcare professional has failed to make the necessary checks before prescribing treatments, resulting in a severe allergic reaction, this could be considered as medical negligence and a failure in that person’s duty of care to you as their patient, and you may be able to make a claim for compensation.

A healthcare professional should also recognise the signs of an allergic reaction to medication and act swiftly to prevent or avoid any further damage.

How do I make a claim for an allergic reaction to medication?

If you feel you have a case, you must provide as much evidence as possible. This will include your medical record which shows your known allergy or allergies, the prescription for the medication, and any documentation showing the damage caused by the allergic reaction resulting in you seeking emergency care or taking time off work sick.

If you feel you have a case, contact our friendly, expert team for a free initial chat to discuss your case: 01603 660 811.

Can I claim compensation if I’ve had an allergic reaction to a prescribed medication?