Chicago Personal Injury Law Blog

The FDA Division of Medication Error Prevention has been given authority to approve the names of all new drugs. This new authority was given to them to help avoid medication errors caused medications with similar names.

The phenomenon of medication errors occurring due medications having similar names is referred to as the "sound-alike" problem, and is a well-recognized problem in the pharmacy industry. Pharmacists are expected to be aware of the potential for error due to similar names such as toradol and tramadol. Well-managed pharmacies have systems in place to remind pharmacists of the potential for error due to the sound-alike problem.

Previously, the Division could make recommendations for changes, but the decision-making authority lay elsewhere. The change gives the Division the final say on medication names, and preventing medication error caused by the sound-alike problem will be a priority. This is a welcome change for medication users.

Labels: medication errors, pharmacy malpractice