During #MedSafetyWeek (3–9 November), the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has highlighted the crucial role pharmacists play in ensuring the safety of medicines and medical devices across the UK. Pharmacists act as the first line of defence in identifying potential safety issues and guiding patients in the safe use of treatments.
The Frontline Role of Pharmacists
Every day, pharmacists help patients use medicines safely and effectively, advising on prescribed treatments, over-the-counter products, or items purchased online. With more people managing their care at home and obtaining medicines via post, pharmacists’ vigilance is vital. Their ability to spot emerging concerns and provide timely guidance can prevent harm and protect communities.
Real-World Reports, Real-World Impact
From January to September 2025, pharmacy professionals submitted 10,734 reports to the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme, averaging 1,193 reports per month. Healthcare professionals contributed 48% of all reports, industry reporting accounted for 30%, and patients, parents, and carers made up 22%. Pharmacists remain the largest contributing group, reflecting the trusted position they hold in their communities.
These reports have directly influenced safety advice on weight loss medicines, strengthened monitoring requirements, and led to product recalls. Additionally, they support investigations into counterfeit or unlicensed medicines and research initiatives such as the Yellow Card Biobank study in collaboration with Genomics England.
Addressing Counterfeit and Unsafe Medicines
Pharmacists have recently reported increasing patient concerns about fake, unlicensed, or imported medicines purchased online or via social media. These products often appear genuine but may contain harmful ingredients.
Key steps for pharmacists include:
- Advise on safe sourcing: Recommend registered UK pharmacies or verified online suppliers. Warn about unusual domain names, payment methods, or products sold without prescriptions.
- Check products for warning signs: Poor packaging, missing leaflets, or inconsistent branding may indicate counterfeit items. Use the #FakeMeds checklist for guidance.
- Report concerns: Submit suspected issues through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, even if uncertain, to support safety and enforcement work.
- Support patient reporting: Encourage patients to report side effects or product concerns, assisting with details from dispensing records when needed.
- Stay updated: Subscribe to MHRA alerts and encourage colleagues to do the same to respond promptly to new guidance.
Collaboration for Safer Medicines
Pharmacists are essential in maintaining patient safety. Their daily interactions, advice, and reporting create a national safety network. By helping patients recognize potential risks and submitting reports, pharmacists contribute to faster MHRA action and greater public confidence in medicines.
Every report matters. Taking a few minutes to document a questionable product, unexpected side effect, or online purchase helps protect not just the patient in front of you but the wider community.
For guidance on safe sourcing and counterfeit awareness, visit fakemeds.campaign.gov.uk. To submit a safety concern, go to yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.