Opioid drugs such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl have become highly contentious topics. Although they can offer immense relief to some patients, they can also cause serious issues. Medical providers must not take opioid prescriptions lightly.
If you suffered complications after your doctor prescribed opioid drugs, Hensley Cloninger & Greer offers support. Our experienced lawyers have advocated for injured patients across North Carolina over the past 30 years. We are ready to help you build a claim for medical malpractice.
Why Doctors Must Be Cautious
When deciding which treatment and pain relief options to recommend, doctors need to consider multiple factors, including:
The individual needs and risks of the patient, including history of addictions
The benefits and side effects of the medication
The appropriate duration for using a strong pain reliever
The appropriate dosage for the condition
Opioids are powerful, highly addictive painkillers. Therefore, prescribing doctors need to carefully assess whether such a strong medication is necessary. Doctors must also carefully monitor patients with opioid prescriptions to manage dosage and treat any problems.
While many lawsuits have targeted opioid manufacturers, doctors may also be held accountable for damages if they did not perform appropriate care. When doctors do not take the time to evaluate all factors, patients may face serious complications. Our attorneys can help you determine whether your doctor failed to uphold their duty.
Others Who May Be Liable for Opioid Injuries
Doctors have a significant responsibility to properly diagnose their patients and provide the treatment that they feel is appropriate. However, when negligently prescribing opioids, doctors often do not act alone. There are others who may have acted carelessly as well and could be liable for your injuries.
Of course, doctors work side by side with nurses, hospital administrators, and others who may have influenced their decision to prescribe opioids or otherwise contributed in some way. Pharmacists also have substantial involvement in the process of administering drugs to patients and are another potentially liable party.
Complications of Opioid Prescriptions
Potential issues resulting from opioid prescriptions can include:
Chemical dependency, which may cause addiction to legal or illegal opioid drugs
Serious reactions, such as trouble breathing or major depression
Inpatient or outpatient overdoses, which may be fatal without prompt administration of naloxone and follow-up care
Our attorneys approach these cases with compassion. We do not judge clients who have suffered from the power of opioid drugs; instead, we find solutions for their recovery. Compensation can help you recover from an opioid addiction or other complications, which is why we are adamant in our strategy for each case.
Learn How to Hold Prescribers Accountable
Errors with opioids and other drugs can cause severe damage. It is crucial to have a legal team on your side that will fight for you and protect your rights.
If you believe that your doctor was unreasonable in your care, call Hensley Cloninger & Greer at (828) 383-8414 or contact us online. We will listen to you and give you straightforward answers to your legal questions.
