Reporting MRONJ as an adverse drug reaction: an oral surgery survey

Introduction Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a significant adverse drug reaction associated with anti-angiogenic and anti-resorptive medications. The aim of this survey was to highlight the importance of reporting adverse drug reactions, including MRONJ.Methodology An electronic survey was disseminated to dentists working in the oral surgery department Birmingham Community Healthcare Trust in November 2021. The survey consisted of 14 open and closed questions relating to the identification and reporting of MRONJ as an adverse drug reaction.Results Although 97% of participants had seen a patient with MRONJ, only 19% had reported an adverse drug reaction to any medication. Interestingly, 27% of respondents felt that MRONJ should be classified as a 'post-operative complication' rather than an 'adverse drug reaction'. In total, 22% of participants were unaware of how to report an adverse drug reaction.Conclusion This survey acts as an important reminder to encourage both patients and dental professionals to report adverse drug reactions, including suspected MRONJ, to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency. Reporting aids accurate national data collection, highlights risk and supports ongoing research in this area.