SAHS observes National Pharmacovigilance Week 2026
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, September 21 2026: Shija Academy of Health Sciences (SAHS) observed National Pharmacovigilance Week 2026 today at the SJ Auditorium, Shija Hospitals under the theme "Promoting Rational Use of Medicines through Pharmacovigilance: A Step Towards Safer Healthcare".

The programme began with a welcome address by Dr Sagolsem Nganthoi, Junior Resident, Pharmacology, followed by keynote address by Dr L Elizabeth Devi, Associate Professor and Head, Pharmacology, SAHS.

Dr Elizabeth stressed the importance of pharmacovigilance in promoting safe and rational use of medicines and strengthening patient safety through timely reporting of adverse drug reactions.

Director, SAHS Dr M Amuba Singh said the Week, observed from September 17 to 23, focuses on medicine safety and preventing harm, including concerns related to self-medication, substandard medicines and use of herbal medicines.

Dr Neerajkumar Shanna Manohar, Assistant Professor and Coordinator, AMC, Department of Pharmacology, SAHS said the centre is one of four recognised ADR centres in Manipur and reported 19 ADR cases last year and conducted over 20 awareness sessions.

He also explained materiovigilance for medical devices.

CMD, Shija Hospitals Dr Palin Khundongbam highlighted cases of hepatic and renal damage due to medication errors and need to balance benefits and risks, particularly antibiotics.

Director, Medical Services Dr Jugindra Sorokhaibam urged healthcare professionals to avoid unnecessary prescriptions, curb OTC antibiotic use and strengthen awareness on rational use and ADR reporting.

A quiz competition with five teams of RMOs, MBBS interns, pharmacists and nurses was held with MBBS interns emerging winners.

A skit by MBBS students highlighted that pharmacovigilance is everyone's responsibility.

Prizes for essay and e-poster competitions were also distributed.

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