Venetia Pierce

“The MHRA issued a drug safety alert regarding the risks of pulmonary and hepatic adverse drug reactions in relation to nitrofurantoin in April 2023. However, no MHRA safety alert appeared on the surgery EMIS system when the drug was prescribed to Mrs [name redacted]. The court heard that the safety alert only arises when patients have a pre-existing pulmonary disease which Mrs [name redacted] did not have.”

“Although a "recognised" complication, understanding of the potential for pulmonary damage and respiratory failure from use of nitrofurantoin in the elderly may remain low. The court heard evidence from a respiratory consultant that awareness amongst GPs, hospital clinicians including urologists was limited and that even if Mrs [name redacted] had been referred to hospital earlier the condition might not have been diagnosed.”