Risk/benefit communication: International developments and prospects for the future

Abstract

While expectations for the benefits of pharmaceuticals are high, the occurrence of health damage from adverse drug reactions remains a problem. One of the reasons for this seems to be insufficient risk communication among stakeholders. Healthcare professionals (HCPs), relevant agencies, and pharmaceutical companies have responsibilities to communicate useful information on the risks/benefits of the pharmaceuticals they provide in addition to basic policies and services. Four years have passed since the risk management plan system was introduced in Japan. Although relevant materials for patients and HCPs are offered, it is still difficult to determine whether they are being utilized effectively. The provision of drug information to patients is necessary to allow them to take medicine safely, while maximizing the benefits and minimizing the risks associated with pharmacotherapy. By incorporating survey results on patients’ level of understanding of drug risks/benefits, a system to provide information emphasizing the perspectives of patients has been promoted in Europe and North America. In the study of safety issues on a scientific basis, risk communication will become an increasingly important subject. This is a field to which pharmacologists and pharmacists can contribute during this symposium. This paper introduces research activities on risk communication that have been carried out in Japan as well as internationally.