Most On Blood Thinners Prescribed Wrong Dose
A recent cardiology study from the Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute shows that approximately 75 percent of patients on the country’s two most popular blood thinners are taking the wrong dose. The report, which was published in Science Daily, stated that about two-thirds of Americans taking clopidogrel (Plavix) or prasugrel (Effient) are at risk for serious side effects from improper use of these medications.
The study raises questions of medical negligence – how is it that these patients, who should be closely monitored by their doctors, are receiving too low or too high dosages of a medication intended to save their lives?
If you or someone you know is taking Plavix or Effient, or their generic counterparts, and suffered side effects due to improper dosing, contact the New York medical malpractice lawyers at The Sanders Firm. Our New York law firm serves all five boroughs, and we are one of the best in the state for cases involving medical negligence in NY.
75% of patients prescribed incorrect dosages
In a recent study, cardiology researchers investigated patients taking clopidogrel (Plavix) or prasugrel (Effient) – the two most widely prescribed blood thinners on the market. People taking the drugs suffer from coronary artery disease and take the medications to prevent blood clots and strokes – in other words, to save their lives. However, the researchers found that:
- Plavix: Of the patients taking clopidogrel, 50 percent were prescribed too low dosages – putting them at risk for blood clots – and another 25 percent took too high dosages, a risk factor for serious hemorrhaging. Only 25 percent were on the correct dosage.
- Effient: The Plavix statistics flip-flopped for patients on prasugrel: 50 percent were on too high dosages and 25 percent were prescribed too low dosages. Again, only 25 percent of patients were on the right amount.
Is medical negligence a factor?
The study further established that common factors such as age, gender, medical history, and cholesterol levels are not the best indicator of how a patient will react to blood thinning drugs. In fact, the researchers stated that the best predictor is a blood test. Medical professionals charged to care for these patients should perform regular blood tests to monitor their dosage and reaction to the blood thinner.
Medical negligence in NY: improper dosages
If doctors should monitor patient blood levels to ensure proper dosage, then it is possible that the failure to do so may constitute medical malpractice. If you believe you have been a victim of improper blood thinner dosage – developing either blood clots from a low dosage or bleeding from a high dosage – then you owe it to yourself to contact experienced New York medical malpractice lawyers. The financial, health and emotional consequences of an improper dosage should not fall to you – they should rest on the shoulders of the party or parties at fault for your injuries.
To schedule a free legal evaluation, call The Sanders Firm toll-free at 1-800-Fair-Play (800-324-7752).
