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Pharmacovigilance in the Caribbean Countries: an Overview
Kingsley E W Walker1, Reshma Bankay1, Satish Jankie2
1Department of Paraclinical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago.
Current Pharmacology Reports
|June 26, 2023
Summary
Caribbean pharmacovigilance (PV) systems require significant enhancement to meet WHO standards. Increased online drug access and falsified medicines necessitate improved post-marketing surveillance and adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting across the region.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Public Health
- Regulatory Affairs
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated drug shortages and increased online access to medicines.
- E-commerce platforms facilitate the widespread marketing of substandard and falsified pharmaceuticals.
- Compromised drug quality necessitates enhanced post-marketing surveillance in the pharmaceutical industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate Caribbean pharmacovigilance (PV) systems against WHO minimum requirements.
- To underscore the critical role of PV in ensuring medicine safety in the Caribbean.
- To identify challenges and opportunities for developing robust PV systems in the region.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of national PV systems in selected Caribbean countries.
- Assessment of adherence to WHO pharmacovigilance guidelines.
- Review of existing regulatory frameworks and reporting mechanisms for adverse drug reactions (ADRs).
Main Results:
- Caribbean PV systems largely do not meet WHO minimum requirements.
- Adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting is minimal due to low awareness and participation.
- Few Caribbean nations actively participate in the WHO global PV network.
Conclusions:
- Sustainable PV systems in the Caribbean require legislative and regulatory improvements.
- Enhanced political commitment, funding, and reporting incentives are crucial.
- Building comprehensive PV systems is essential for safeguarding public health in the region.
Keywords:
Adverse drug reaction reportingCaribbean countriesPharmaceutical policiesPharmacovigilanceRegulatory framework and legislationWest IndiesMore Related Videos
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