MedSafetyWeek 2024
Today, the MedSafetyWeek starts. The MedSafetyWeek is an annual (social) media campaign focussing on raising awareness of pharmacovigilance, and promoting recognition and reporting of suspected adverse events. In the Netherlands, the Dutch Medicine Evaluation Board and pharmacovigilance centre Lareb host the MedSafetyWeek.
The safety of vaccines and medicines are always extensively tested before being introduced to the market. Adverse events observed during the (pre)clinical studies are documented in the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC).
However, some adverse reactions, whether mild or severe, may only be observed in real-world scenarios, particularly when a medicine or vaccine is administered to many individuals. Additionally, certain reactions may only manifest after prolonged use or in combination with other medicines.
Therefore, it is important to report any suspected adverse reaction. Reporting possible side effects enhances our understanding of medicines and vaccines. With this knowledge, we can recognize, treat and sometimes even prevent adverse reactions in the future.
About the MedSafetyWeek
The MedSafetyWeek is an annual campaign organised by the World Health Organisation, promoted by Uppsala Monitoring Centre, medicines regulatory authorities and pharmacovigilance centres globally. This year 91 countries participate in the MedSafetyWeek.
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