DRAP's mobile App starts receiving drug reaction complaints.

ISLAMABAD -- The MED safety mobile application of Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan's (DRAP) has started receiving complaints on adverse drug reactions (ADRs) from citizens across the country for taking action.

Sharing details of the mobile App with the reporter, Director Pharmacy Services DRAP Dr Abdur Rashid Friday said in case of any such grievance, the victims could lodge a complaint with DRAP through the App.

He said only seven countries had developed such mobile App so far for the purpose. The World Health Organization (WHO) would directly receive complaints on any matter regarding drugs' adverse reactions.

Complainants would receive immediate acknowledgment of receipt of their reports, he added.They could submit reports on adverse reactions even when offline or to view and submit updates to previously submitted reports, Dr Abdur Rashid said.

He said there was a watch list of medications to receive personalized news and alert. While using that option one could create a watch list for drugs for receiving specific news.

He said on emergency cases, quick action would be taken and in that regard standard operating procedures (SOPs) had been developed by the authority.

Dr Rashid said there would be a separate reporting form for suspected adverse drug reactions in relation to COVID-19. 'ADR reporting is a just a touch way and with active participation, citizens can contribute to the cause of safety of medicines in the country.'

He said all the submitted reports could also be viewed later for adding more information.

He said the app was launched on the occasion of Med Safety Week from November 2-8. The process of installing the app (on a mobile phone) was very simple and phase wise like opening the Playstore...