Encouraging the reporting of adverse drug reactions

SummaryThe value of spontaneous adverse drug reaction reporting schemes in detecting new and serious reactions depends on the number of reports to the schemes and the quality of those reports. The widening of eligibility to report, and especially the inclusion of patients and carers in the reporting system is one way of increasing report numbers; studies show this can be done without compromising the quality of reports. An alternative or complementary strategy is to encourage or incentivize existing reporters. Educational and financial initiatives have been successful, but the success may be short-lived. Better communication with reporters, especially through regional monitoring centres, may help.