Injured by a Dangerous Drug?
Our lawyers are here for Mainers exposed to dangerous drugs
If you were exposed to a dangerous drug, it's crucial to consult with an experienced attorney in Maine. Too much is at stake to deal with an injury or side effect to a drug without proper legal guidance. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we have experience helping Mainers who were injured by defective drugs and prescription medications. Since 1974, we have helped more than 25,000 Mainers collect more than $750 million in compensation and benefits.
“Ben's office did a great job in helping me with my case. Always responsive when I called with questions. Patient in answering questions and always made sure that I understood what we were discussing. Very Friendly and understanding. Made a rough experience easier. I would recommend them to anyone that is looking to make a difficult time easier.” - Beth G., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Dangerous Drugs in Maine
- What is considered a dangerous drug?
- What should I know about unsafe drugs?
- What compensation can I recover in a dangerous drug case?
- How long do I have to file a dangerous drug claim in Maine?
- Can I file a claim if the drug I took was prescribed?
- What should I do if the medication I am using has been recalled?
- What is an off-label use?
- What is the difference between a dangerous drug and medical malpractice?
- What steps should I take if exposed to a harmful drug?
What is considered a dangerous drug?
A dangerous drug is any medication that causes unexpected harm to patients, even when used as directed. This harm may be due to undisclosed side effects, defective manufacturing, improper labeling, or failure to warn about known risks. A drug may also be considered dangerous if it's prescribed for a use that hasn’t been proven safe or approved.
What should I know about unsafe drugs?
Each year, new drugs flood into the marketplace, and each year many of these drugs are recalled or removed from the shelves due to dangerous side effects. While most people have been treated with drugs at some point in their lives and many people have seen the benefits of modern medicine, the unfortunate reality is that big pharmaceutical companies are not always looking out for the consumer's best interests. These corporations have marketing teams that come up with clever ways to offer promises to improve lives.
Unfortunately, some of these claims are misleading and false. Patients and even their doctors who don't have adequate information may take a harmful drug and suffer severe and possibly fatal side effects.
Every year in Maine and across the United States, people lose loved ones due to the negligence of the drug companies, leading to wrongful death lawsuits.
What compensation can I recover in a dangerous drug case?
If you’ve been harmed by a dangerous drug, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one died
How long do I have to file a dangerous drug claim in Maine?
In Maine, you typically have six years from the date of injury to file a dangerous drug lawsuit. However, drug injuries may not be immediately obvious, so it's important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help you determine when the clock started and ensure you meet all legal deadlines.
Can I file a claim if the drug I took was prescribed?
Yes. You can still file a dangerous drug claim even if your doctor prescribed the medication and you took it as directed. The issue is often with the drug itself – such as undisclosed side effects, defects, or a lack of proper warnings – not how it was used.
What should I do if the medication I am using has been recalled?
If your medication is recalled, stop using it immediately and contact your doctor for medical guidance. Keep the packaging, receipts, or any remaining doses – they may serve as evidence. Next, talk to a lawyer experienced in dangerous drug cases to understand your legal options.
What is an off-label use?
Off-label use refers to when a medication is prescribed for a purpose not specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While healthcare providers are legally allowed to prescribe drugs off-label based on their clinical judgment, drug manufacturers are prohibited from marketing or promoting medications for off-label uses. If a patient is harmed as a result of off-label use promoted by a pharmaceutical company, legal action may be possible.
What is the difference between a dangerous drug and medical malpractice?
A dangerous drug case focuses on the medication itself – such as a defective formula, manufacturing issue, or failure to provide adequate safety warnings. Medical malpractice involves the actions of a healthcare provider, such as prescribing the wrong medication, misdiagnosing a condition, or failing to monitor side effects properly. In some situations, both a dangerous drug and medical negligence may play a role in a patient’s harm.
What steps should I take if exposed to a harmful drug?
If you believe that you have been exposed to a dangerous drug, your first priority should be to seek proper medical attention. Keep all records of your medical visits and doctor reports.
Don't hesitate to contact a lawyer in Maine to learn about your rights. Our law firm represents injury victims throughout Maine, including Sanford, Biddeford, Portland, Windham, Lewiston, 
Augusta and Bangor. We are an experienced firm with resources and access to top experts. If you or a loved one was exposed to a dangerous drug, contact us today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
You have the right to be fully and duly informed of a drug's proper dosage, potential interactions with other drugs, side effects as well as other information.
How a Maine dangerous drug lawyer can help
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we are prepared to help you or your loved one pursue your legal options. Call Joe today: 1-866-275-4563. Your initial case evaluation is free, and there is no obligation. Put the power of a respected Maine law firm behind you. Tell them you mean business.
"What a great experience I had going through Joe Bornstein they took care of everything if I had a question there was always somebody there to answer it they got the case settled at a reasonable time I'm very happy with them."
- B.F., Georgetown, ME
