Reporting suspected adverse reactions

[Penel CIMDA moderator]

I'm re-posting this with Beverley's (Cuddy) permission - she posted it on facebook yesterday.
Jo and I often mention reporting suspected adverse reactions but it really is important.

Suspected Adverse Reaction Surveillance Scheme

Do you know why you are told that "strange, we have never had any reactions before" when you report trouble with a drug or vaccine. It's because they are so rarely reported. It is estimated by
some sources that only about 1% of adverse reactions is reported! YOU CAN HELP.
Every SUSPECTED adverse drug reaction should be reported to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate. There is no obligation to ascertain whether it is definitely an adverse reaction. The suspicion is sufficient to generate a report. However, for some reason, this is only a voluntary scheme and vets only report a tiny proportion of suspected adverse reactions. This is a travesty.
The VMD permits 'owners' to report incidents now but your vet and the pharmaceutical company involved will be informed.
If suspected adverse reactions are not reported, the myth that there are very few will persist! Do your bit for posterity and send in those reports.
http://www.vmd.defra.gov.uk/adversereactionreporting/