Pharmacovigilance: Enhancing Drug Safety in Modern Healthcare

Abstract

Pharmacovigilance, the science and activities related to the detection, assessment, understanding, and prevention of adverse effects or any other drug-related problems, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of medications within healthcare systems. As pharmaceutical treatments evolve and the use of drugs becomes increasingly complex, the importance of robust pharmacovigilance systems has never been more critical. This review examines recent advancements in pharmacovigilance practices, exploring innovations in data collection, signal detection, and risk management strategies. It highlights the integration of real-time monitoring technologies, the role of electronic health records (EHRs), and the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving the detection and analysis of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Furthermore, the paper discusses the evolving regulatory frameworks, the challenges of international pharmacovigilance, and the need for enhanced collaboration among healthcare professionals, regulatory bodies, and the public to improve drug safety. The review also considers the impact of pharmacovigilance on patient outcomes, healthcare costs, and public trust in pharmaceutical products. Through an analysis of current practices, case studies, and emerging trends, this paper underscores the importance of continuous innovation in pharmacovigilance to address the complexities of modern healthcare and ensure that medications remain safe and effective throughout their lifecycle.