Use Caution, Avoid Confusion - Updated Similar Drug Name List Available
Issued April 18, 2001
The USP Practitioners' Reporting Network SM has released an
updated list of similar drug names. In this recent release, more than 125
additional name sets have been captured. These name sets are compiled from
reports submitted to the USP Medication Errors Reporting (MER) Program concerning drug names that either have the potential to cause medication errors or have been implicated in actual medication mix-ups. The new entries on the list are highlighted in red print. USP Quality Review #76, Use Caution, Avoid Confusion contains a fully cross-referenced list of similar drug names. Although some of these names may not sound alike as read or look alike in print, when written or communicated orally, the names have caused or could cause a medication error.
To report concerns with sound-alike and look-alike drug names contact the
USP Medication Errors Reporting (MER) Program at 800-23-ERROR (800-233-7767)
or submit reports via the USP's Web site.
Readers are advised that official USP cautions and warnings for drugs appear in the USP–NF or USP DI. Unless otherwise indicated, any advice or opinions expressed herein reflect solely the judgment of USP staff. Such statements are intended for further consideration and evaluation and may or may not be applicable to a particular practice. The USP Medication Errors Reporting Program is presented in cooperation with the Institute for Safe Medication Practices.
