Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRS)

Clinical Description

• Nearly all medicines may produce unwanted or unexpected adverse effects, some of which may be life threatening e.g., anaphylactic shock, liver failure
• Prescribers should immediately report any serious or unexpected adverse effects thought to be due to a medicine to:

The Registrar, Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority, PO Box 30241, Lilongwe.

Tel: 01 755 165/166 Fax: 01755 204

• Ways to minimize ADRs

Never use a medicine unless there is a clear indication for its use

• Only use medicines in pregnancy if essential
• Check if the patient has had any previous reactions to the medicine or to similar medicines
• Remember to reduce doses when necessary e.g., in the young, the elderly, and if liver or renal disease is present
• Always prescribe the minimum number of medicines possible.
• Carefully explain the dose regimens to patients, especially those on multiple medicines, the elderly and anyone likely to misunderstand.
• If possible, use medicines with which you are familiar
• look out for ADRs when using new or unfamiliar medicines
• Warn patients about likely adverse effects and advise them on what to do if they occur
• Patients on certain prolonged treatments e.g., Anticoagulants, corticosteroids, Insulin etc. should carry a health passport giving information about the treatment