When a Pharmacy Gets It Wrong: Understanding Errors of Commission

When patients fill a prescription, they trust that the medication they receive is accurate and safe. Unfortunately, that trust is sometimes broken due to a preventable mistake known as an "error of commission." In pharmacy terms, an error of commission occurs when a pharmacist or pharmacy staff member actively does something wrong—such as dispensing the wrong drug, the wrong dose, or incorrect instructions. These mistakes can have devastating consequences, ranging from serious side effects to permanent injury or even death.

Unlike an error of omission—when something is left out, like failing to provide counseling—an error of commission involves a direct action that should not have occurred. For example, a pharmacist might misread a prescription and give a patient a medication with a similar name but vastly different effects. Or a technician may incorrectly label a medication bottle with the wrong dosage. These errors can cause patients to overdose, underdose, or suffer allergic reactions—all because of a preventable mistake.

The legal implications of pharmacy errors are significant. Pharmacies have a duty to maintain high standards of care and to implement systems that prevent these types of mistakes. When that duty is breached, and a patient is harmed as a result, the pharmacy may be held legally accountable for negligence. Victims of these errors often face costly medical bills, long recovery periods, and emotional trauma that could have been avoided with proper diligence and safety protocols.

At Kennedy Law Firm, we represent individuals and families affected by pharmacy errors, including errors of commission. We work to uncover what went wrong, hold the responsible parties accountable, and secure the compensation our clients deserve. If you suspect a pharmacy mistake has harmed you or a loved one, don't wait to take action.

Contact Kennedy Law Firm today for a free case review.