Small reactions can signal big risks, report them: Experts

We often trust that the medicines we take will heal us. But sometimes, even life-saving drugs can cause unexpected harm. A mild rash, a stomach infection, or dizziness after taking a pill may not seem serious, yet these could be signs of an Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR). Reporting such side-effects can actually save lives.

To spread this message, the Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Monitoring Centre at Government Medical College, has jumped into action and planned various awareness events during the Pharmacovigilance Week being observed from September 17 to September 23.

This year’s theme, “Your Safety: A Click Away – Report to PvPI”, highlights how easy it has become to report side-effects through the PvPI mobile app, online portal, or toll-free helpline 1800-180-3024.

Dr Gurpreet Kaur Randhawa, Coordinator of the ADR Monitoring Centre, explained, “Every single ADR report matters. It helps doctors prescribe more safely and alerts authorities to take action before more people are harmed.”

Deputy Coordinator Dr IPS Grover added, “Drug safety is not just the job of doctors. Patients and families play an equal role. When you report a reaction, you protect your community.”

Throughout the week, walkathons, poster campaigns and awareness sessions will be held at Civil Hospital Amritsar, Urban Training Health Centre and GMC. Students, hospital staff and patients will come together to spread awareness about medicine safety.

The ADR Centre at GMC has already sent hundreds of reports to the national database, strengthening India’s role in the global drug safety network coordinated by the World Health Organisation’s Uppsala Monitoring Centre, Sweden.

Dr Grover added that ignoring side-effects can lead to serious harm. What feels like a “small” reaction today could be a warning sign of a bigger danger tomorrow, he added. “By reporting, you not only protect yourself but also help doctors improve treatment for others,” he said.