How can I effectively monitor for adverse drug reactions in patients starting a new medication?

Effective monitoring for adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in patients initiating new medication involves several key steps:

• Engage patients in informed discussions about the benefits and risks of the medication, ensuring they understand how to identify and report any adverse effects or safety incidents related to their treatment ¹.
• Use systematic and transparent processes within the practice to identify, report, prioritise, investigate, and learn from medicines-related safety incidents, including ADRs, aligned with national reporting systems such as the National Reporting and Learning System ¹.
• Encourage patients to actively monitor and record adverse effects, for example by using checklists or symptom rating scales, to facilitate early detection and documentation of ADRs ².
• Conduct regular and appropriate clinical monitoring tailored to the medication and patient population, such as measuring vital signs, weight, blood tests (e.g., glucose, lipids), and ECGs when indicated, especially during dose titration and early treatment phases ³.
• Involve pharmacists with relevant clinical expertise in strategic decisions and care pathways involving medicines to optimise safety and effectiveness ¹.
• Maintain a 'fair blame' culture within the organisation to encourage open reporting and learning from ADRs and medication errors without fear of punishment ¹.

These steps collectively support early identification, timely management, and prevention of harm from ADRs in patients starting new medications.