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Using trade names: a risk factor for accidental drug overdose
Matthias Schwab1, Carsten Oetzel, Klaus Mörike
1Dr Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Auerbachstrasse 112, D-70376 Stuttgart, Germany. matthias.schwab@ikp-stuttgart.de
Archives of Internal Medicine
|May 9, 2002
Summary
Using only drug trade names can cause medication errors, leading to serious harm. A patient overdose of verapamil highlights the risks of omitting international nonproprietary names, emphasizing patient safety in prescribing.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Patient Safety
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Medication errors pose significant risks in healthcare.
- The exclusive use of drug trade names can obscure active pharmaceutical ingredients.
- International Nonproprietary Names (INN) are crucial for clear drug identification.
Observation:
- A case of verapamil overdose is presented.
- The overdose occurred due to confusion stemming from the exclusive use of a trade name.
- The patient's medication regimen lacked the explicit mention of the international nonproprietary name.
Findings:
- Exclusive reliance on drug trade names can lead to medication errors.
- Failure to include INNs increases the risk of accidental overdose.
- Verapamil overdose can have severe, life-threatening consequences.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should consistently use International Nonproprietary Names alongside trade names.
- Clear drug nomenclature is essential for preventing adverse drug events.
- Implementing standardized prescribing practices enhances patient safety and reduces medication errors.