‘Don’t ignore side effects, report them’
Taking place from 2–8 November, this year’s global #MedSafetyWeek campaign urges people not to ignore side effects and to report them.
‘Don’t ignore suspected side effects, report them’ – this year’s key campaign message.
While medicines can save lives and improve the health of millions of people, they may also cause unintended side effects. Some side effects appear suddenly, while others develop gradually and even after long-term use. Some may be clearly noticeable, while others are ‘silent’, showing no obvious signs, and are only detected from tests.
The Analytical Expertise Center (AEM) calls on all patients and healthcare professionals to stay alert to all types of side effects that may occur when using medicines, and to report them when they occur. The reports are an important source of knowledge on the safety of medicines and help regulators like AEM identify potential risks in good time and take appropriate action.
‘Reports from the public and healthcare professionals have a vital role in helping us monitor the safety of medicines. Every report can contribute to ensuring the safety of medicines and help protect others from future harm.’
Side effects may be more likely to occur when starting a new medicine, changing the dose, or when also taking other medicines, certain foods or herbal remedies. That is why it is important to read the information leaflet that comes with your medicine carefully and to discuss known side effects with a healthcare professional.
If you think that symptoms you experience may be linked to a side effect of a medicine, report them. This is especially important if they affect your day-to-day life, are serious, or are not listed in the patient information leaflet.
You do not need to be certain that the medicine caused the symptom to report it. Reporting even when in doubt helps to better assess the safety of medicines.
‘Reporting suspected side effects may seem like a small action, but it makes a big difference in making medicines safer for everyone. If you suspect a side effect, don’t ignore it — report it!’
The 2026 #MedSafetyWeek campaign will be the largest to date. From 2–8 November, 140 organisations from 130 countries will be sharing #MedSafetyWeek’s messages in more than 60 languages.
Don’t ignore side effects, report them.
