November 2nd to 8th is #MedSafetyWeek – an annual global campaign highlighting the importance of reporting suspected side effects and safety issues associated with medicines.
In Ireland, our colleagues in the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), who are responsible for regulating medicines and medical devices, lead the activities throughout the week.
We know from our work that side effects can be common with many anti-seizure medications (ASMs). We frequently hear from people with epilepsy that medication side effects are among the most challenging and often unseen aspects of living with the condition. This is why Epilepsy Ireland is once again proud to support this important campaign.
This year’s campaign theme is simple: don't ignore side effects – report them. Side effects can range from mild to serious and may develop either immediately or gradually over time. The campaign encourages people to consider whether symptoms they are experiencing may be related to a medicine they are taking and to report suspected side effects promptly. Every report helps build a better understanding of the safety of medicines and can help protect others from harm.
We encourage all people with epilepsy, as well as parents and guardians of children with epilepsy, to report any medication side effects they experience. Reports can be submitted to the HPRA in several ways:
- By visiting the HPRA website and completing the online reporting form.
- By downloading a copy of the adverse reaction report form, completing it and emailing it to medsafety@hpra.ie.
- By printing the adverse reaction report form and posting the completed copy to: Freepost, Pharmacovigilance Section, Health Products Regulatory Authority, Earlsfort Centre, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2, D02 XP77.
- By calling the HPRA on (01) 676 4971.
You can also learn more about medication side effects by visiting the Treatment section of our website.
We would also like to take this opportunity to remind the entire epilepsy community to contact your medical team if you have any concerns about your ASMs. Never stop taking your medication or adjust your dosage without first speaking to your prescriber or healthcare professional. Doing so can significantly increase the risk of breakthrough seizures and other serious consequences.
We know that managing medication side effects alongside epilepsy can be one of the most difficult aspects of living with the condition. If you need support or information relating to your own epilepsy journey, or that of a family member, please do not hesitate to contact your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the Our Local Services section of our website.