Integration of materiovigilance in Unani medicine: A step towards patient safety

Materiovigilance is the practice of monitoring and ensuring the safety of medical devices by identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with their use. While this concept is well-established in modern medicine, its foundational principles can also be traced back to Unani literature, which emphasizes the safe and effective use of tools and instruments in traditional therapies. The integration of materiovigilance into the Unani system of medicine is a significant step towards enhancing patient safety and ensuring the efficacy of traditional healthcare practices. Unani medicine, known for its holistic approach, incorporates various therapeutic regimens such as Ḥijama(Cupping Therapy), Fasd(Venesection), Taliq al-'Alaq(Leech Therapy), etc., many of which involve the use of medical devices and instruments. These devices, ranging from simple tools to complex instruments, pose varying levels of risk to patients. In this review, the concept of materiovigilance, its relevance to the Unani system, and the importance of its integration to ensure patient safety and improve treatment outcomes have been examined. It categorizes Unani therapeutic devices based on their risk levels-low, moderate, and high-underscoring the need for tailored monitoring and safety measures for each category. The paper also discusses the challenges and opportunities in implementing materiovigilance within Unani practices. The adoption of such measures is crucial for safeguarding patient health, maintaining the quality of traditional therapies, and aligning with international safety and regulatory standards. This integration not only supports the sustainable development of Unani medicine but also strengthens its role in the broader healthcare landscape.