Preventing a Harmful Dosage Increase

A patient who had been stable on a certain dose of thyroid medication for about two years recently presented a new prescription with an increased dose. Before dispensing, I reviewed his electronic health record to ensure the change aligned with his current health data. The latest lab results suggested that he actually needed a dose decrease, not an increase.

If the higher dose had been given, it could have worsened his condition, potentially causing serious complications. I decided to hold the prescription and contacted the prescribing doctor to discuss the discrepancy.

After reviewing the labs, the doctor agreed with the adjustment. The dose was corrected to a lower amount, aligning with the patient’s current needs. Because of a pharmacist, something important happened.