In today's digital age information is readily available quickly, which can be both positive and negative.
Health Canada recently recalled Valsartan, a drug for hypertension due to carcinogenic contaminants. As one would expect, this caused a lot of panic among the public. Working in a community pharmacy at the time, I remember getting several frantic calls from frightened patients about this recall. Several patients were displeased that we did not contact them first. The most common calls however, were patients trying to confirm if any of their other medications were being recalled. This panic could have easily been avoided if patients were aware of the resources available to them.
Health Canada provides updates on its website and app, both of which are underutilized by health care professionals and patients. The website and app provide updates on Health Canada’s decisions for recalls and shortages pertaining to food, consumer goods, vehicles, and drugs.
Importance of Accuracy?
Since information spreads quickly in the digital age, it is important to get accurate updates, especially in regards to drugs.
A game of broken telephone often occurs when news breaks, causing misinformation to spread. A great example would be the Valsartan recall. Health Canada had the entire list of Valsartan products being recalled along with their strengths, and manufacturers. Many news outlets simplified this to the drug name, Valsartan and its primary indication, blood pressure. Many patients simplified this to a medication for blood pressure when contacting their family and friends. This led several people down an emotional roller coaster only to find out their drug was not affected.
Why does this matter?
Providing patients with these resources provides a reputable source for information on drug recalls and shortages. Well-informed patients are less likely to make rash decisions or panic. The goal is not to stop patients from contacting their health care providers, but to provide better tools for self-care. Self-care is an integral part of health maintenance. Drug recalls and shortages are a common occurrence, and it is difficult to relay this information to patients. Arming patients with these tools for recalls and shortages promotes self-care and limits the harm that misinformation causes. Hopefully this is something that you will strongly consider for yourself and your patients.
Thanks for your time & catch you next week,
Derick Oduro
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