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Pharmacovigilance Awareness Among Ayurveda Physicians in Himachal

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Knowledge and Awareness of Pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda Physicians in Himachal Pradesh
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Rohit Sharma, Jayram Hazra, PK Prajapati


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: Knowledge and Awareness of Pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda Physicians in Himachal Pradesh

Year: 2017

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Pharmacovigilance (PV) is increasingly recognized as a critical component of healthcare in India, particularly in addressing the safety and efficacy of medications, including those derived from Ayurvedic practices. This study investigates the level of knowledge and awareness regarding pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda practitioners in Himachal Pradesh, focusing on their understanding of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and the importance of documenting these incidents. With growing concerns over the safety of Ayurvedic medicines, particularly those containing metals and minerals, it becomes vital to involve Ayurveda practitioners in the PV reporting mechanism.

Knowledge and Awareness of Pharmacovigilance

The research, conducted through a validated questionnaire, surveyed 277 Ayurveda physicians working in both rural and urban settings of Himachal Pradesh. Findings revealed a significant lack of awareness and understanding of pharmacovigilance among these practitioners, with a notable percentage unaware of their responsibilities toward reporting ADRs. The study indicated not only demographic characteristics, such as the age and gender of participants but also highlighted the inadequate training and misconceptions that may contribute to the insufficient ADR documentation. The insights garnered through this survey suggest that Ayurveda practitioners have the potential to participate actively in PV but currently lack the necessary knowledge and skills.

Conclusion

In summary, the study underscores the urgent need for enhancing the knowledge and awareness of pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda physicians. By fostering better understanding and practices related to ADR reporting, stakeholders can ensure the safety and effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments. Improving educational outreach and training programs in this domain is imperative for facilitating early detection of adverse reactions and promoting rational drug use, ultimately contributing to the broader field of healthcare in India. The findings aim to encourage authorities and practitioners to prioritize pharmacovigilance as a means of safeguarding patient health in Ayurveda.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is the main focus of the study conducted in Himachal Pradesh?

The study investigates the knowledge and awareness of pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda physicians in Himachal Pradesh, highlighting the need for better understanding and documentation of adverse drug reactions in Ayurveda.

What were the demographics of the Ayurveda physicians surveyed in the study?

The survey included 277 Ayurveda physicians, primarily aged 25-35 years (59%), with more males (69%) than females (31%). Most were graduates (96%) and had over five years of work experience (61%).

How was the data for the study collected from participants?

Data was collected via a validated questionnaire shared through WhatsApp, ensuring voluntary participation and confidentiality. Participants were asked to complete and return the questionnaire after answering.

What was a significant finding regarding Ayurveda practitioners' knowledge of pharmacovigilance?

The study found a poor level of knowledge and awareness regarding pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda practitioners in Himachal Pradesh, indicating the need for improved education and training in this area.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Pharmacovigilance Awareness Among Ayurveda Physicians in Himachal�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine originating from India, focusing on holistic health and wellness through natural remedies. It emphasizes a balance of body, mind, and spirit to maintain health and treat ailments. Practitioners utilize herbal medicines, dietary practices, and lifestyle interventions, making it relevant in the context of pharmacovigilance and safety assessments.

2) Medicine:
Medicine refers to the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. It encompasses a vast range of practices, including conventional (allopathic) and traditional systems (like Ayurveda). Understanding the safety and efficacy of medicinal substances, particularly in alternative practices, is crucial for ensuring patient safety and minimizing adverse reactions.

3) Knowledge:
Knowledge, particularly in pharmacovigilance, is critical for healthcare professionals to recognize, report, and manage adverse drug reactions (ADRs). It influences practitioners' ability to make informed decisions about patient care, assess risks associated with medicine use, and contribute effectively to drug safety initiatives, especially in traditional practices like Ayurveda.

4) Drug:
A drug is a substance used for medical treatment, diagnosis, or prevention of diseases. It includes all forms of therapeutic agents—pharmaceuticals and herbal remedies. Understanding the pharmacological properties and potential adverse effects of both modern and traditional drugs is vital for safe medical practices and optimizing therapeutic outcomes.

5) Science (Scientific):
Scientific refers to methods and approaches that are systematic, objective, and based on empirical evidence. In the context of pharmacovigilance, applying scientific principles is essential for evaluating drug safety and efficacy, especially when assessing traditional medicine practices and ensuring their components are tested and validated.

6) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma is a common surname in India, and in this context, refers to Dr. Rohit Sharma, one of the authors of the study on pharmacovigilance among Ayurveda practitioners. His contributions highlight the importance of academic research in assessing knowledge gaps and promoting safe medical practices in Ayurveda.

7) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush is an acronym for Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy, representing traditional Indian systems of medicine. The Ministry of AYUSH in India promotes these practices, ensuring their integration into public health systems. This recognition underlines the need for safety regulations and awareness in pharmacovigilance within these alternative systems.

8) Rasa (Rasha):
Rasa refers to the concept of 'essence' or 'taste' in Ayurveda, emphasizing the therapeutic properties of substances used in compositions like 'Rasa Shastra.' Understanding these properties aids practitioners in recognizing potential adverse effects and ensuring safe usage of herbo-mineral formulations, crucial for pharmacovigilance efforts.

9) Rasashastra (Rasa-shastra, Rasasastra):
Rasa-shastra is a branch of Ayurveda focused on the use of metals, minerals, and herbo-mineral preparations in treatments. It involves complex processes and precautions to avoid adverse reactions. Awareness of Rasa-shastra is vital for understanding the risks and safety assessments in pharmacovigilance related to Ayurvedic practices.

10) Bhaishajya (Bhaisajya):
Bhaishajya translates to 'medicine' in Ayurveda, encompassing a broad range of healing practices and formulations. It highlights the importance of safe and effective drug use, requiring knowledge of potential adverse effects and proper reporting mechanisms for adverse drug reactions, especially among Ayurveda practitioners.

11) Mahapatra (Maha-patra):
Mahapatra is a surname referenced in related research contexts, possibly an author or contributor emphasizing collaborative academic efforts in understanding pharmacovigilance. Such collaborations play a significant role in addressing knowledge gaps and improving safety protocols in the use of traditional medicines, ensuring public health safety.

12) Training:
Training in pharmacovigilance is essential for healthcare professionals, enabling them to identify, report, and manage adverse drug reactions effectively. This is particularly important in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda where practitioners may lack adequate training. Enhancing knowledge through structured training programs will improve patient safety and accountability.

13) Shastra (Sastra):
Shastra means 'scripture' or 'treatise' in Sanskrit, often referring to the foundational texts of Ayurveda that describe medical principles and practices. These texts are essential for understanding therapeutic approaches and ensuring that practitioners adhere to safety guidelines, thereby supporting effective pharmacovigilance and patient care.

14) Kalpana:
Kalpana refers to the preparation of medicines in Ayurveda, including various formulations such as decoctions, powders, and pills. Knowledge of Kalpana is crucial for practitioners to ensure the safety and efficacy of herbal medicines, thus supporting pharmacovigilance efforts and minimizing the risk of adverse reactions.

15) Tulasi:
Tulasi, or Ocimum sanctum, is a revered herb in Ayurveda known for its medicinal properties. It is often used for its therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Knowledge of its effects and potential adverse reactions is vital for safe use and integration within pharmacovigilance frameworks.

16) Visha (Visa):
Visa refers to 'poison' in Ayurveda, typically indicating harmful plants or substances. Awareness of Visa is critical for practitioners to avoid adverse drug reactions. The implications of using such substances underscore the need for rigorous pharmacovigilance to ensure patient safety in Ayurvedic practices.

17) Post:
Post refers to the clinical or professional placement of Ayurveda practitioners. Understanding the demographics and work environments of these practitioners helps tailor pharmacovigilance training initiatives to ensure effective reporting of adverse drug reactions and promotes safer practices, benefiting overall healthcare quality.

18) Ocimum sanctum:
Ocimum sanctum, commonly known as Tulasi or Holy Basil, is a significant herb in Ayurveda recognized for its health-promoting properties. Understanding its medicinal uses, contraindications, and potential adverse effects contributes to safe prescribing within Ayurveda. This reinforces the need for informed practices in pharmacovigilance.

19) Bhasma (Bhasman):
Bhasma refers to calcinated metal or mineral preparations used in Ayurveda for their therapeutic properties. Understanding the preparation methods and potential risks associated with Bhasma is vital for practitioners. This knowledge directly relates to pharmacovigilance, ensuring safe use and awareness of possible adverse effects when these substances are administered.

20) Reason:
Reason highlights the underlying principles and motivations behind practices and beliefs. In the context of Ayurveda and pharmacovigilance, grasping the reasoning behind drug effects, potential adverse reactions, and the need for structured reporting systems ensures that practitioners are adequately prepared to manage patient safety effectively.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Pharmacovigilance Awareness Among Ayurveda Physicians in Himachal�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Ayurvedic medicine, Classical Ayurveda, Himachal Pradesh, Systematic documentation, Age-group, Questionnaire based survey, Knowledge, attitude and practice, Schedule E-1, Validated questionnaire, Financial support and sponsorship, Conflicts of interest, Long-term safety, Adverse drug reactions (ADR), Pharmacovigilance (PV), Professional qualification.

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