Settlement for client who suffered an exacerbation of a pre-existing condition due drug dispensing error

The Medical Negligence Team at Cantillons settled a case for a dispensing error. Our client had been critically ill and had been an inpatient for nearly two months with symptoms of an autoimmune disease, which was subsequently diagnosed as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (“SLE”).   The treating Consultant was of the opinion that as the Plaintiff had been so critically ill, he would introduce an immunosuppressant in the form of Imuran into her treatment regime.   The Imuran however, was to be very slowly introduced and increasing same was to be carefully monitored both by the doctors and the laboratory.  However, unbeknownst to our client, there was a drug dispensing error.  It transpired that the medication box, although labelled Imuran (on one side), was labelled Lamictal (an anti-epileptic drug on the other side) and contained Lamictal tablets.  Our client not only took the incorrect medication, she also did not receive any autoimmune treatment in that period which could have impacted on her underlying condition.  Our client became extremely ill and was re-admitted to Hospital.  Our team issued proceedings and successfully negotiated a settlement. 

Contact us at Cantillons Solicitors at +353 (0)21 -4275673 or info@cantillons.com if you would like more information.

* In contentious business, a solicitor may not calculate fees or other charges as a percentage of any award or settlement.