Participation in Awareness Programme on Pharmacovigilance in ASU & H Drugs
Pharmacovigilance plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and rational use of drugs, especially in traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani, and Homoeopathy (ASU & H). With the increasing use of Ayurvedic medicines across the country, monitoring adverse drug reactions and preventing misleading advertisements has become an essential responsibility of healthcare professionals.
I, Dr. Somnath Dutta, had the privilege of participating in the Awareness Programme on Pharmacovigilance in ASU & H Drugs and Misleading Advertisements, organized by the Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI), Kolkata, under the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. This programme was conducted on 28th March 2023 at Rajib Gandhi Memorial Ayurvedic College & Hospital, Belley Shankarpur, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal.
The programme aimed to create awareness among Ayurvedic physicians, academicians, and healthcare professionals regarding the importance of pharmacovigilance in Ayurvedic practice. Special emphasis was given to the identification, documentation, and reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) related to Ayurvedic medicines, as well as the ethical and legal responsibilities of physicians in preventing misleading drug advertisements.
During the session, experts from CARI and the Pharmacovigilance Programme of AYUSH (PPvC) discussed national guidelines, reporting mechanisms, and real-world challenges faced in pharmacovigilance of traditional medicines. The programme also highlighted the role of physicians in strengthening patient safety by ensuring rational prescription practices, quality control, and post-marketing surveillance of Ayurvedic drugs.
Participation in this programme significantly enhanced my understanding of drug safety monitoring, regulatory frameworks, and the scientific approach required in modern Ayurvedic practice. It reinforced the importance of evidence-based Ayurveda and responsible communication with patients and the public. The awareness regarding misleading advertisements was particularly valuable, as it emphasized ethical practice and compliance with government regulations to protect public health.
This certification reflects my commitment to continuous professional development and my dedication to practicing Ayurveda in a safe, ethical, and scientifically responsible manner. The knowledge gained from this programme is actively applied in my clinical practice, research work, and patient education, ensuring higher standards of care and trust in Ayurvedic treatment.
