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Health 52
Info Tip:
Pharmacy Mistakes
While consumers have become better educated about medications and the risk
of side effects, it’s equally important to check all prescription
medications you receive.
Mistakes in filling prescriptions are on the rise for a number of reasons.
The industry has recognized a serious pharmacist shortage; meanwhile, new
chain-pharmacy locations are opening in record numbers and more
prescriptions are being filled than ever before, largely for a growing
senior population.
A mix-up in sound-alike drugs can cause serious health problems. Some
examples are Fosamax for osteoporosis and Topamax for migraines; Lamictal
for epilepsy and Lamisil for fungal infections; and Zantac for acid reflux
and Zyrtec for allergies.
U.S. Pharmacopeia, the organization that sets public standards for all
medicines sold in the United States, says there are now more than 3,000
pairs of sound-alike or look-alike drugs.
For your own health and safety, don’t assume that the pharmacist is always
right. Know the generic and brand names, as well as the dosage, of the
medication your doctor prescribed.
Avoid phoned-in prescriptions when possible, since sound-alike medications
can lead to easy mistakes. Double-check the labels before you leave the
pharmacy, and if it’s a refill, check the shape and color of the pills
before you take them.
Sources: U.S. Pharmacopeia, WBAL TV, American Foundation of
Pharmaceutical Education
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