Working Methods for the Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring Program in the Philippines

Abstract

Initiatives to monitor adverse drug reactions (ADRs) exist in many countries. Information about ADRs assists in policy changes and interventions toward the safer use of medicines. The Philippines ADR monitoring program began in August 1994 with assistance from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and the Philippines Department of Health (DOH). This program is entrusted to an academic institution for implementation. The objective of this program is to promote drug safety through ADR monitoring nationally. The methods include training courses, establishing notification systems through hospital therapeutics committees, and advising DOH about problem drugs and their usage. A few hospitals started in-house notification schemes and are part of the program’s network. Reports received by the program are processed and sent to the World Health Organization (WHO) Uppsala Monitoring Centre. The program has received over 400 ADR reports; produced training videos, manuals, and newsletters for health professionals; and collaborated with health professional associations. Future plans include addressing the needs of general practitioners and consumers.