Study shows increase in drug deaths reported to FDA

The Chicago Tribune reported that a new study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showed a big increase in the number of drug deaths and injuries reported to the FDA between the years of 1998 and 2005. This may shed some light on recent problems that have arisen with the government agency that monitors prescription and over-the-counter drugs.

The sudden increase in “adverse events” related to drugs available to consumers may show that the FDA is not adequately studying and monitoring certain drugs before they go on the market.

What’s more, the study’s lead author and the FDA itself say it could also mean several aspects of the health-care system, including doctors, hospitals and other care givers are lacking in their ability to manage medications. Insulin, for example, was among the top drugs cited for causing disability or other “serious outcomes.” Although specific reasons for adverse events are not disclosed, a study author said mismanagement of the medication can cause low blood sugar which leads to balance issues, accidents and unconsciousness.

If you or someone close to you has experienced a serious injury or death due to defective drugs, it may be in your best interest to seek qualified legal advice. For a free case evaluation from one of our attorneys, simply click on the form to the right of this page.

For more information on this subject matter, please refer to the section on Drugs, Medical Devices and Implants.