Today sees the start of the ninth edition of #MedSafetyWeek, a global campaign running from 4 to 10 November 2024, bringing together 107 organisations from 94 countries. This year's theme is the importance of using medicines correctly in order to prevent adverse effects and to report them if they occur.
Millions of people take medicines to improve their health. However, medicines can have adverse effects. By using medicines correctly, we can reduce the risk of side effects. And by reporting adverse reactions when they occur, we can help make medicines safer for everyone.
Medicines authorities around the world have set up reporting systems to monitor the safety of medicines. The aim of this annual global campaign is to learn more about known adverse reactions and to identify new ones. This may lead to warnings and package leaflet updates, as well as changes in the way a medicine is prescribed or used. In Belgium, adverse reactions can be reported on the www.notifieruneffetindesirable.be / www.eenbijwerkingmelden.be website.
"Patient safety is our absolute priority. During the #MedSafetyWeek campaign, we want to remind people that reporting adverse reactions is a cornerstone of our monitoring system. It's easy to think that only scientists or healthcare professionals can make medicines safer. As a user of medicines, you - the patient - play a crucial role. Every time you report a suspected adverse reaction to the FAMHP, you are helping to make medicines safer for patients around the world". says Hugues Malonne, FAMHP Chief Executive Officer.
During #MedSafetyWeek 2024, everyone can help promote the campaign message by using the hashtag and sharing FAMHP publications on social media