TGA : Launched a new online service to make it easier for consumers to report side effects from medicines

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has launched a new online service to make it easier for consumers to report side effects from medicines and vaccines.

The TGA said adverse events were under-reported around the world with 90 to 95 per cent estimated to go unreported to regulators.

"There is an international trend for regulators to encourage reporting by consumers and the release of the new consumer-focused web reporting option forms part of the TGA's effort," the TGA said.

ach year, the TGA receives more than 17,000 reports of suspected adverse events to medicines and vaccines.

In 2013, about 3 per cent of these reports came from consumers, compared with 55 per cent coming via pharmaceutical companies, 17 per cent from State and Territory Health Departments, 10 per cent from hospitals and hospital pharmacists and the remainder from community pharmacists and general practitioners.

"The new web-based reporting service for consumers is one of a range of initiatives being implemented by the TGA to encourage reporting among this group," the TGA said.

Other activities include a brochure outlining to the public what and how to report side effects, awareness activities and consumer research to help plan further projects to raise awareness.

The new online service can be found at this PS News link and the brochure here.