Identifying Suspected Unexpected Serious Adverse Reactions

By Drug Safety Hub

Imagine you’re a detective, and you’ve been given a case to solve. The case is complex, with many pieces of the puzzle missing. This is similar to the challenge of identifying a Suspected Unexpected Serious Adverse Reaction (SUSAR).

Identifying a SUSAR is like solving a complex puzzle. It requires careful observation, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the human body and how it reacts to medications.

The Role of Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals are like the detectives in this scenario. They play a crucial role in identifying SUSARs. They monitor their patients closely, looking for any signs of adverse reactions. They also take into account the patient’s medical history, the timing of the drug administration, and the onset of the adverse reaction.

For example, if a patient starts experiencing severe stomach pain after starting a new medication, and this symptom is not listed as a known side effect of the medication, the healthcare professional might suspect an unexpected serious adverse reaction.

The Role of Patients

Patients, on the other hand, are like the witnesses in a detective story. They provide valuable information that can help in identifying SUSARs. They are encouraged to report any new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider as soon as possible.

For instance, if you start experiencing severe headaches after taking a new medication, it’s important to report this to your healthcare provider. This could be a sign of an unexpected serious adverse reaction.

Serious Adverse Reactions