People are being encouraged to make medicines safer by reporting any suspected side-effects.

According to the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA), while many people do not experience any problems when taking medicines, side-effects can occur, even with over-the-counter products.

It is important that any possible risks associated with medicines are communicated to healthcare professionals, their patients and carers. Potential side-effects can range from headaches and stomach ache, to just feeling ‘a bit off', and reporting these can help regulators to identify potential problems, and take action if necessary.

The HPRA said that it relies on the reporting of suspected side-effects to make sure medicines are safe, however it is widely acknowledged that such effects are currently under-reported.

The authority is taking part in the third annual social media campaign aimed at promoting the importance of reporting any suspected side-effects. The campaign forms part of an awareness week involving 32 medicines regulators worldwide.

The regulators will focus jointly on raising reporting numbers for suspected side-effects, with an additional emphasis this year on the safe use of medicines in infants and children, and during pregnancy, including when breastfeeding.

"The most important part of our work is making sure the medicines you and your family take are effective and acceptably safe. Our campaign will help raise awareness with parents and carers, including expectant mothers and those planning to have a baby. It's important for them and healthcare professionals to report potential side-effects and have confidence their reports are making a difference," commented Dr Almath Spooner of the HPRA.

She pointed out that children and infants can react differently to medicines than adults, so it is essential that parents and carers read the patient information leaflet that comes with each medicine.

"Medicines you take while pregnant or breastfeeding can also sometimes affect your baby. If you need to take medicine during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or even before when you plan to have a baby, it's essential you discuss your treatment, including any potential side-effects, with your doctor or healthcare professional," Dr Spooner added.

Any suspected side-effects can be reported to the HPRA quickly and easily here