A UNIVERSITY of South Australia study has found that only 36% of adults who experienced adverse drug reactions (ADR) reported them to health authorities.
Most of the 544 participants were unaware of the digital tools available for reporting ADRs, such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration's website, phone, or email.
In Australia, medication-related harm accounts for up to 3% of hospital admissions, leading to an estimated 250,000 cases annually and costing $1.4 billion (PD 17 Sep).
A $1.7 million NHMRC grant is supporting UniSA researchers in developing consumer-friendly digital tools to improve ADR reporting and reduce healthcare costs.
Lead researcher Mohammed Dedefo said that international studies show digital tools can double ADR reporting, but awareness in Australia remains low.
The current ADR system is mainly used by pharma companies but increasing public awareness of these tools could significantly improve drug safety monitoring, he commented.
Researchers suggest integrating reporting options into healthcare apps and social media platforms to increase awareness.
Co-author A/Prof Lisa Kalisch Ellett added that more reporting would allow the TGA to better assess medication safety, update information, or withdraw harmful drugs when necessary. JG
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