During Med Safety Week 2026, healthcare organisations around the world are raising awareness of the importance of reporting suspected side effects from medicines, vaccines, medical devices and other healthcare products.
This year's message is:
Side effects - don't ignore them, report them
Many people experience side effects from medicines or treatments. These can range from mild symptoms, such as headaches or nausea, to more serious reactions. If you think you may be experiencing a side effect, it's important not to ignore it.
By reporting suspected side effects, you can help healthcare professionals and regulators identify potential safety concerns and improve patient safety for everyone.
What should I report?
You can report suspected:
- Side effects from prescription medicines
- Side effects from over-the-counter medicines
- Reactions to vaccines
- Problems with medical devices
- Issues with herbal remedies or other healthcare products
You do not need to be certain that a medicine or healthcare product caused the problem. If you suspect a side effect, it is worth reporting.
How do I report a side effect?
In the UK, suspected side effects and safety concerns can be reported directly to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme.
Reports can be made by:
- Patients
- Carers and family members
- Healthcare professionals
Why does reporting matter?
Every report helps build a clearer picture of how medicines and healthcare products affect people in real-life settings. Information collected through the Yellow Card Scheme helps identify new side effects, improve patient information, and ensure medicines remain as safe as possible.
Find Out More
To learn more about the Yellow Card Scheme or to submit a report, visit:
🔗 https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk
Support Med Safety Week
Help spread the message by talking to friends and family about reporting side effects and sharing information on social media using:
#MedSafetyWeek
#MHRAYellowCard
Together, we can help make medicines and healthcare products safer for everyone.