Reporting a Human Medicine Side Effect

Most of us will not experience any problems when using medicines. However, all medicines have some risks associated with their use and so a small number of people may develop side effects (also known as adverse reactions).

What is a side effect?
A side effect or adverse reaction is an unwanted or unintentional reaction that a person may experience after taking a medicine. In many cases, side effects to medicines are mild and do not mean that you have to stop taking the medicine. However, for some people, the side effects can sometimes be more serious and may require a change in treatment or, in rare cases, some additional medical treatment.

What should I do if I think I have had a side effect?
If you are concerned that you have had a side effect to a medicine, contact your doctor or pharmacist who will advise on any treatment you may need. They may also report the suspected side effect to the Irish Medicines Board (IMB).

Should you wish, you can also report side effects directly to the IMB. While a report of a side effect does not necessarily mean that it is has been caused by the medicine you took, the IMB encourages people to report all suspected side effects.

How do I report a side effect?
You can report a suspected side effect in a number of ways:

1. To your doctor, pharmacist or nurse who can then notify the IMB.
2. By using the IMB’s online form. A downloadable version of the form is also available, which can be filled in manually and sent to the IMB by freepost.
3. By calling the IMB on (01) 676 4971

Further Information
The IMB has published a medicines and side effects consumer information leaflet. This leaflet provides more information about side effects and why it is important that they are reported to the IMB.

The Irish Medicines Board - www.imb.ie

Reporting a Human Medicine Side Effect