It is no secret that pharmaceutical companies have been in the news for all the wrong reasons lately. From employee errors to lack of supervision, the dangers of pharmaceutical contamination are real and should not be taken lightly.
Despite this, many individuals continue to take their prescription medications without a second thought. But what happens when those medications are contaminated? Who is held accountable? And how can you get compensation if you or a loved one has been affected?
Contamination in the Manufacturing Process
The potential for medication contamination during the manufacturing process is a serious concern for both consumers and manufacturers. While there are many steps in the manufacturing process that are meant to prevent errors, there are still ways in which medications can become contaminated.
Employee Errors
One of the most common causes of pharmaceutical contamination is employee error. This can occur during any stage of the manufacturing process, from ingredient gathering to packaging and shipping. In some cases, disgruntled or malevolent employees may deliberately contaminate medications in an act of sabotage. Other times, they may make simple mistakes that have serious consequences. Either way, the result is often the same: contaminated medications that put patients at risk.
Inadequate Quality Assurance
Lack of supervision or adequate quality assurance can also lead to contamination. Employees who are not properly supervised may be more likely to make mistakes. In addition, if quality control measures are not up to par, it may be harder to catch contaminants before they enter the final product.
Contamination During Distribution
While a large amount of contamination can happen during the manufacturing process, medications can also become damaged at any point during distribution.
- Transportation – Medications can be exposed to extreme temperatures, humidity, and sunlight during transport. These conditions can cause the active ingredients in medications to break down, making them less effective or even dangerous.
- Packing – Medications can also be damaged during shipping if not packed properly. For example, if tablets are loose in a box, they may break or crumble, making them ineffective.
- Storage – Once medications reach the pharmacy, they must be stored properly to maintain their potency. The active ingredients may break down if they are not stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Dispensing Procedures – Medicines can become contaminated during the dispensing process if pharmacists do not follow proper procedures for cleaning and sterilizing equipment.
Let Goldenberg Lauricella, PLLC Fight For Your Rights
You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one has been injured by contaminated medicine. The attorneys at Goldenberg Lauricella, PLLC have experience handling these cases and can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contaminated medicine can cause a variety of injuries, including death. If you have been injured, you may be able to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
If you were injured due to a contaminated medication, you deserve to be compensated. Contact our offices today at (800) 504-0281 for a free consultation.