[Setup of a national system of adverse drug reaction reporting in Lebanon: results of the first year of activity].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this publication is to present the results of the first year of activity of the national adverse drug reactions (ADR) reporting system in Lebanon.

METHODS

We started our survey with 3 teaching hospitals (more than 160 beds/hospital). Pharmacy students were responsible for collecting and investigating ADRs reported by physicians.

RESULTS

After 7 months, 40 cases of suspected ADRs were reported, of which the majority (32 cases) had a causality score of "probable" according to the French method of causality assessment. Skin and allergic reactions occurred in the largest proportion of the ADRs reported (46%). The most common drugs involved in the ADRs were antimicrobial agents (43%) followed by anticonvulsant and anticoagulant drugs (12% each).

CONCLUSION

Our objectives are to extend the reporting system in other hospitals throughout Lebanon.