Adverse Drug Reactions and Pharmacovigilance in Clinical Practice

Abstract

Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) represent a significant challenge in clinical pharmacology and patient care. This paper examines the mechanisms, classification, and prevention of ADRs, emphasizing the role of pharmacovigilance in ensuring drug safety. ADRs may arise from predictable pharmacological effects or unpredictable immune-mediated reactions.
The paper discusses common risk factors for ADRs, including polypharmacy, age extremes, genetic variation, and comorbid conditions. Pharmacovigilance systems are essential for detecting, assessing, and preventing drug-related harm through post-marketing surveillance. Reporting systems enable healthcare professionals to identify safety signals and improve regulatory decision-making.
The integration of pharmacovigilance into routine clinical practice enhances patient safety and supports rational prescribing. The paper concludes that strengthening drug safety monitoring and awareness is critical for reducing preventable harm and improving therapeutic outcomes.