Role of pharmacovigilance center in information for the public on drugs. Experience in Marseille on 9 month
Jean-Pastor, M.J.; Morange-Sala, S.; Rodor, F.; Gambini, D.; Galland, M.C.; David, J.M.; Jouglard, J.
Therapie 47(5): 429-432
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0040-5957 PMID: 1299984 Document Number: 402018
We analyzed the role of the Marseille pharmacovigilance center (working in collaboration with the local poison treatment center) in informing the general public on medicinal drugs. Over a 9-month period, the center received 115 requests from members of the public for information. 82.6% of callers were not members of the health professions and wanted information for themselves (61.7%, 67.6% women) or their children (26.08%). The questions mainly involved drug interactions (28.7%), side-effects (26%) and precautions for use in particular circumstances (20%). 178 proprietary drugs (47 of which had been bought over the counter) were mentioned. The main therapeutic classes were neuropsychiatric drugs (n = 41), cardiovascular drugs (n = 17) and analgesics (n = 16). A number of communication difficulties and problems of a deontological nature were encountered. Full information was provided in every case, together with advice on prevention to about half the callers.