Most doctors don't report ADRs

February 8, 2008 at 3:09 pm | In Prescribing Extra - Other |

The British Medical Journal has published the results of a Welsh survey into GP reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) through the Yellow Card system. The survey found that 63% did not submit a yellow card from 2004 to 2007.

The survey collected data on 1,700 GPs in 22 local health boards. A sample of 224 GPs was questioned more closely to compare those who use the reporting mechanism often with those who had not used the reporting system at all. It was found that good users of the system were generally more aware of the yellow card scheme, more involved in training and study and made the time to report.

Action: The safe use of medicines relies upon effective post marketing surveillance. All clinicians should make time to complete and submit and set themselves a target for submission each month - even if it's only one!