November 4th – 11th marks #MedSafetyWeek – an annual global campaign which aims to highlight the importance of reporting suspected side effects and safety issues resulting from a person’s medication.
Activities for the week in Ireland are led by our colleagues in the Health Products Regulatory Authority, who are responsible for regulating medicines and devices in Ireland. Epilepsy Ireland are happy to support this important campaign again this year, given that a range of side effects can be very common with most Anti-Seizure Medications.
Speaking about the importance of the week, Director of Human Products Monitoring, Sinéad Curran said:
We approve advice on the safe and appropriate use of a medicine based on scientific evidence, which is rigorously assessed. Following this advice can reduce your risk of side effects says Sinead Curran, Director of Human Products Monitoring.
During the #MedSafetyWeek campaign, we want to remind patients to read the package leaflet for their medicine and take as instructed by a healthcare professional. We remind healthcare professionals to review the latest advice in the approved product information for a medicine before prescribing to a patient.
We encourage reporting of any suspected side effect to the HPRA and we appreciate the time taken by many healthcare professionals and members of the public who make reports to us. It is easy to think only scientists or healthcare professionals can make medicines safer. As a medicine user, you – the patient – play a crucial role.
Often it is communicated to us by people with epilepsy that side-effects from medications can be one of the most challenging aspects of living with the condition.
We would encourage all people with epilepsy and their parents/guardians to take the time to report side effects from your medications, if you are experiencing them. Reports about side effects can be sent to the HPRA in various ways, including:
- By visiting the HPRA website and filling out the online form
- By visiting the HPRA website and downloading a copy of the adverse reaction report, completing and emailing to medsafety@hpra.ie
- By visiting the HPRA website and printing the adverse reaction report form and posting a completed copy to the HPRA to Freepost, Pharmacovigilance Section, Health Products Regulatory Authority, Earlsfort Centre, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 XP77
- By calling the HPRA on (01) 676 4971.
You can also learn more about side effects by visiting the ‘Treatment’ section of our website.
We know that managing side-effects alongside epilepsy can be a one of the most difficult aspects of living with the condition. If you need any support or advice around your or your family member’s journey with epilepsy, do not hesitate to get in touch with your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the 'Our Local Services' section of our website.