Pharmacies Report Over 10,000 Cases of Drug-Related Concerns

In 2024, the German Medicines Commission (AMK) recorded a staggering total of 10,882 reported cases related to drug safety issues, including quality defects and adverse effects. This figure marks a significant increase of over 2,500 cases compared to the previous year, as noted by the ABDA - Federal Association of German Pharmacists' Associations.

Approximately 5,000 pharmacies, both public and hospital-based, contributed to these reports, reflecting an increase of 572 establishments from the prior year. Of the total cases, 9,199 involved prescription medications, while 1,437 concerned over-the-counter drugs. Additionally, the AMK documented 326 complaints related to food products, including dietary supplements, medical devices, drugs, chemicals, and other items such as custom formulations and cosmetics.

The majority of the reports centered on suspected quality defects, with a notable number related to Metamizole-containing drops produced by Zentiva Pharma, which accounted for 1,809 cases. Around one-quarter of the reports pertained to adverse drug reactions, which also included suspected medication errors and drug misuse. The AMK observed a marked increase in these categories, with medication errors rising to 348 cases in 2024, up from 247 in 2023, and drug misuse cases increasing to 50 from 35 in the previous year. Conversely, only ten reports were made regarding tampering or counterfeit drugs.

The last time the AMK received a similar volume of reports was in 2019, when there were 10,782 cases. The 2024 figure represents a new record high for reported incidents.

The AMK chairman emphasized the crucial role that local pharmacies play in ensuring effective and safe medication therapy. He acknowledged the vital contributions made by pharmacy teams in enhancing drug safety and, ultimately, patient safety.

Furthermore, the president of the German Pharmacists' Chamber encouraged patients to address any concerns regarding their medications directly with their pharmacists. Pharmacists possess the expertise to assess quality issues with drugs, identify potential application errors, and provide advice on the compatibility of medication therapies. This is a fundamental responsibility of community pharmacies.