Following liver injuries being linked to high doses of acetaminophen, Health Canada is considering changing the daily maximum dosage for these popular medications.
A recent local investigation revealed that over the last decade, acetaminophen has led to deaths and for many others, hospitalization for injuries and illness. Between 2000 and 2009, there were more than 250 deaths where acetaminophen was a major or contributing cause of death.
If you or someone you love has fallen ill after taking a medication, you may be entitled to file a claim for medical expenses and your pain and suffering. Contact the experienced lawyers at Greg Monforton & Partners for a free claim review.
Call (866) 320-4770 or fill out an online contact form.
According to Health Canada, about 4,000 hospitalizations each year are for acetaminophen overdose. Of these, about 20 per cent are due to people accidently exceeding the recommended dose.
Approximately 250 cases of serious liver injuries in Canada are related to acetaminophen.
Its common for someone experiencing pain to think taking an extra one or two pills will help. Unknowingly, victims are setting themselves up for serious adverse reactions.
The department is working to determine what the maximum recommended daily dose should be, as well as examining formulations used for extra strength and extended release acetaminophen. Health Canada is working with local partners to determine if similar products should be moved behind pharmacists counters. There are about 475 products containing acetaminophen being sold in the nation.
In addition to these changes, Health Canada may also require childrens liquid medications that contain acetaminophen to be sold with a device that would prevent accidental overdose.
In 2009, Heath Canada updated label warnings to outline the risks in taking acetaminophen, but it seems more has to be done as people are still suffering injuries and illness. A draft of the new guidelines could be posted online as early as September.
The experienced Windsor personal injury lawyers at Greg Monforton & Partners understand the dangers of over-the-counter and prescription medications. We commend Health Canada for taking a step in the right direction, but also believe that big drug manufacturers need to be held accountable for failing to adequately warn the public about their products.
If you have fallen ill after taking a dangerous drug, you may be entitled to compensation. Our team of lawyers are ready to help you fight for your rights.
Contact us at (866) 320-4770 or fill out an online contact form for a free case review.