Evaluation of Pharmacists’ knowledge and Adherence to Pharmacovigilance Practices: A cross sectional study

Background Pharmacovigilance (PV) is essential for detecting and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs), yet underreporting by pharmacists is a persistent global issue. This study aimed to assess pharmacists’ knowledge and adherence to PV practices in Minia Governorate, Egypt.Methods A cross-sectional, survey-based study was conducted among 345 pharmacists working in public and private sectors, including hospital and community pharmacies across rural and urban areas. Data were collected through structured face-to-face interviews by trained final-year pharmacy students using a validated questionnaire covering demographics, PV knowledge, and practice.Results The mean age of participants was 35.44 years, with 67.25% under 36 years and a slight female majority (53.04%). Most pharmacists (66.09%) had less than 10 years of experience, and 52.47% worked in both public and private sectors. Although 84.06% were aware of PV concepts and national centers, only 57.97% knew what happens after an ADR is reported. Formal education was the primary source of PV training (45.22%), yet 16.81% had never learned how to report ADRs. Only 32.17% of pharmacists had ever reported an ADR, most commonly to the Egyptian Pharmaceutical Vigilance Center (24.32%). Reporting methods included on-site, online, and phone submissions. Colleagues and e-learning were commonly cited sources of information on medicine safety.Conclusion Despite high awareness of PV concepts, actual ADR reporting practices among pharmacists were suboptimal. These findings highlight the need for improved training, clearer reporting procedures, and enhanced institutional support to strengthen PV engagement and promote medication safety.