Telangana mandates PvPI QR codes at all pharmacies to boost public reporting of adverse drug reactions
The directive aims to improve public participation in reporting adverse events linked to medicines
By - Newsmeter Network
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Hyderabad: The Drugs Control Administration (DCA) of Telangana has issued new guidelines requiring all retail and wholesale medical shops in the state to prominently display the official Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) QR code and toll-free number for reporting Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs).
The directive aims to improve public participation in reporting adverse events linked to medicines.
The mandate was announced on Saturday by Shahnawaz Qasim, IPS, Director General, DCA Telangana.
Mandatory Display at All Pharmacies
According to the DCA, every retail medical shop, pharmacy, and wholesale medical outlet must now ensure that the PvPI QR code is placed in a clearly visible area accessible to customers.
The guidelines specify:
1. “The designated PvPI QR Code (as attached) shall be mandatorily displayed at a prominent, visible location in every retail and wholesale medical shop premises.”
2. “The PvPI Toll-Free Number, 1800-180-3024 must also be displayed alongside the QR Code.”
3. Pharmacies must ensure that the QR code is clear, unobstructed, and easily accessible to the public.
4. The system enables “quick and seamless reporting of Adverse Events/Adverse Drug Reactions (AE/ADR) through the indigenous PvPI Adverse Drug Reaction Monitoring System (ADRMS).”
The directive applies to every pharmacy in Telangana without exception.
How the Public Can Report Adverse Reactions
The DCA urged citizens to use the newly standardised reporting channels whenever they experience or suspect an adverse reaction after taking a medicine.
The press note states:
• “By scanning the QR Code displayed at any medical shop/pharmacy, individuals can instantly report any suspected adverse reaction to medicines.”
• Reports logged through this system contribute to national efforts “to detect, assess, and prevent drug-related risks.”
• Citizens may also use the PvPI toll-free helpline: 1800-180-3024.
Strengthening Drug Safety Surveillance
According to the DCA, improving ADR reporting is essential for strengthening India’s pharmacovigilance network and ensuring safer use of medicines nationwide.
The press note emphasises that “Ensuring robust Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) reporting is essential for safeguarding public health and reinforcing the drug safety surveillance framework in India.”
Shahnawaz Qasim, IPS, Director General of the DCA, appealed for cooperation from both pharmacies and the public.
The note concludes with the call for public support “in fostering a safer and more vigilant healthcare environment by reporting Adverse Events/Adverse Drug Reactions through the QR Code or the toll-free number.”
The mandatory display requirement is effective immediately across Telangana.
