Patient died after pill 'mix-up'

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A man died after being prescribed a drug he was known to be allergic to, an inquest in Derbyshire has heard.

Dennis Aucote, 57, of Newhall, died in March 2008 after suffering a violent reaction to ibuprofen.

Derby Coroner's Court heard Newhall Surgery had mixed up Mr Aucote's notes with those of similarly-named patient Dennis Allcote.

But the inquest was also told Mr Aucote's allergy had not been properly recorded on his own notes.

History of asthma

Dr Andrew Hignett failed to specifically ask Mr Aucote about any allergies, the inquest heard.

Witnesses including the receptionist and Dr Hignett told the court they were unable to explain how the mix-up with the two men's notes happened.

The inquest heard that Mr Aucote, a forklift engineer, had a history of asthma and severe allergic reaction to some fruit and painkillers.

In March 2008 he hurt his shoulder and made an appointment to see a doctor.

The court was told that Dr Hignett was looking at Mr Allcote's medical notes when he prescribed ibuprofen to Mr Aucote, and the prescription contained Mr Allcote's name.

Mr Aucote collected the tablets from a chemist, went home, took one tablet, suffered a violent reaction and died shortly afterwards.

The inquest continues.