The Yellow Card - Healthy Life Essex

There currently seem to be relentless attacks against complementary and alternative therapies  and yet problems with pharmaceutical drugs, both prescribed and over-the-counter,  are often covered up or not reported.

The MHRA are now stepping up their ‘Yellow Card’ system. If you or anyone you know has had adverse effects from any medication please use this system via your doctor, pharmacist or online. 

Members of the public to be encouraged by pharmacists to report suspected side effects of medicines  The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is today launching a six-week campaign to get community pharmacists to mention the Yellow Card (YC) Scheme when they talk to their customers about their medicines. During this week, pharmacists will receive an information pack containing updated Yellow Card reporting forms, information leaflets, and a new poster for display in the pharmacy. The Yellow Card reporting forms have been made simpler and easier to use than previous versions and an updated online system at www.yellowcard.gov.uk will make it quicker and easier to report suspected side effects of medicines to the MHRA.Dr June Raine, Director of Vigilance and Risk Management of Medicines at the MHRA said, “We are keen to let people know that whilst their medicines have important benefits, they may also have unwanted side effects. If you suspect that you have had a side effect to your medicine, please tell us about it via the Yellow Card Scheme. Please speak to your local pharmacist if you need help to do this, as they can provide expert help and support. Please pick up and fill out our improved reporting form or go online and tell us about your experiences there. By providing this information, not only are we able to gain better insights into the safety of medicines, but you can directly become involved in medicines regulation.”Shelley Flanagan, a member of the public who suffered side effects from antibiotics after being treated for pneumonia said, “I would encourage anyone who believes they have had a side effect to a medicine to fill out a Yellow Card like I did, or report online. I think it’s important to discuss the medicines you are taking with your pharmacist or doctor so that you understand what you are taking and why.”