Implementation of a pharmacovigilance system to detect adverse events and improve medication appropriateness in a hospital in Indonesia

Background: The growing elderly population has led to an increased occurrence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) due to the various drugs they are prescribed, posing the problem of potential drug interactions. The application of causality instruments combined with trigger tools and the competency of healthcare professionals has yielded better results in detecting ADRs. Objective: To evaluate the implementation of a pharmacovigilance system to detect ADRs, potentially inappropriate medications, and potential prescription omissions. Methods: An observational, descriptive, prospective study was conducted over six weeks at one of the largest hospitals in Indonesia. The pharmacist and the physicians collaborated in reviewing patient medication records using the pharmacovigilance system. Results: The study enrolled 144 patients. The 163 positive triggers identified helped detect 28 Adverse Drug Events (ADEs) caused by at least one high-alert medication. These ADEs occurred in 25 patients. Additionally, 62 potentially inappropriate medications and 41 potential prescription omissions were detected. Conclusion: The pharmacovigilance system could reduce the frequency of ADEs caused by medications used in elderly patients.