What can I do if I was prescribed a medication that caused me to have a heart attack?
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What can I do if I was prescribed a medication that caused me to have a heart attack?
About 3 months ago I went to my doctor with severe pain in right arm. I was seen by his PA. When asked, I told her I was a smoker and heart attacks were rampant in both sides of my family. Without doing any tests whatsoever she prescribed me 1000mg of naproxin. After some research it was clear that naproxin can cause clots and should not be prescribed to people that are a high risk for heart attack. On Nov 14th, after taking the naproxin for about a month I had a “widowmaker” heart attack. Due to some excellent care I survived but am damaged now. Always tired, cant work. Would giving me a script that might have helped the heart attack happen, or not testing me at all mean I have a case?
Asked on January 14, 2015 under Malpractice Law, New York
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
While its not clear that this medicine did in fact cause your heart attack, based on the facts presented it may well have been negligent to have prescribed it for you. And if negligence causes an injury, a victim indeed has grounds for bringing a lawsuit. At this point, you should consult with a personl injury attorney who specializes in medical malpractice cases. They can best advice you on this matter. Typically, such consultations are free.
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