Articles from Safe Medicine

The articles in this section present important information about protecting consumers. They discuss medication errors that patients, doctors, pharmacists, and nurses have voluntarily reported to us.

Whenever we receive an error report, we analyze the error's root causes and contributing factors. Then we use this data to determine what steps could have been taken to prevent it. Ultimately, our staff and reviewers develop written recommendations to help you protect yourself from errors and become a more informed and empowered consumer.

	Computer-generated prescriptions require patient's check
	Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) is becoming an increasingly popular way for doctors to prescribe medicines for their patients. This method involves using a special computer program. Using a handheld device or computer terminal, the doctor selects...
	How medicines in creams, ointments and sprays can harm you
	Creams, ointments, gels, sprays, lotions and patches are medicines that will enter your body by penetrating through the skin and entering the bloodstream. They can cause side effects if you use too much of the medicine.
	Over-the-Counter Pain Medicine Warnings
	FDA issued a ruling that requires manufacturers of over- the-counter pain relievers to include warnings of health risks on their labels. The recent ruling requires the makers of Tylenol, Motrin, Advil and Aleve to include more specific, st...
	Poisonous Plants
	Plants are a common cause of poisoning. Both indoor and outdoor plants can be poisonous. Some plants can cause a skin rash, others can cause an upset stomach if ingested and still others can cause more serious problems by harming your hea...
	Poisonous Holiday Plants
	Although holiday plants can be very festive, some of them can also be very toxic. A plant is considered toxic if it causes chemical injury when touched or swallowed. Plants produce toxic substances, by-products of the essential functions of...