Publication:

A cross-sectional observational study to assess awareness of pharmacovigilance among interns of a teaching medical institute in western Maharashtra

Background Adverse Drug reaction (ADR) is one of the most serious health problems and remains an important cause behind treatment non-adherence and treatment failure. Voluntary reporting of ADRs is fundamental basis of Pharmacovigilance and Drug safety. However, underreporting of ADRs remains hindrance to Pharmacovigilance practice. Hence the present study was conducted to assess awareness regarding Pharmacovigilance in Interns.

Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted in Interns at tertiary care hospital of Western Maharashtra.

Results Questionnaire was analyzed at the Response Rate of 87.5%. Interns were having good knowledge (52.42%) and practices (50%) about Pharmacovigilance. Majority of interns (85.75%) possess correct attitude towards Pharmacovigilance. All the interns (100%) are of opinion that it is important to report the ADRs. Majority of the interns (97.60%) suggest that it should be mandatory to have an ADR reporting center in each institute. Most of them (59.52%) feel that there should be some incentive to report an ADR and 90.47% of Interns want to get trained in ADR reporting.

Conclusions Awareness and Practice of Pharmacovigilance can be improved by proper training of interns about ADR reporting. We strongly recommend the introduction of ADR reporting in the internship orientation program.