The thalidomide disaster was the significant historical event that acted as a catalyst for pharmacovigilance activity. Following this event developed countries initiated drug monitoring systems that evolved and now extend their scope to broader drug-related safety issues; however, this was not the case in developing countries. Pharmacovigilance is still a relatively new concept with low priority in developing countries although various issues are raising concerns that magnify the need for systems to monitor post marketing drug safety in these countries. This article analyzes the barriers to introducing robust pharmacovigilance systems in developing countries.

In recent years, attention to pharmacovigilance has gained momentum in developing countries, however awareness of, and policies or systems for pharmacovigilance in most developing countries still lags sharply behind developed countries. This article proposes different strategies to encourage the introduction and sustain the advancement of robust pharmacovigilance systems in developing countries. To this end, this article seeks to accomplish the ultimate goal of pharmacovigilance in a developing country context; ensuring patient safety and promoting safe and rational use of drugs.