On March 25, 2024, the Amrita School of Ayurveda organized a seminar focused on pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda at Acharya Hall, Amrita School of Engineering. The seminar aimed to address the challenges and propose solutions for ensuring the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic medications.
The seminar commenced with opening remarks by Swami Shankaramaritandapuri, the esteemed Dean of Amrita School of Ayurveda. He emphasized the importance of pharmacovigilance in ensuring the trustworthiness and effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatments.

Sessions Overview:

Introduction to Pharmacovigilance:
Dr. Devisree Damodaran, Junior Research Fellow at PPvC Amrita School of Ayurveda, provided an insightful introduction to pharmacovigilance, laying down the foundation for understanding its significance in the Ayurvedic context.

Reporting of Toxicity Due to Ayurveda Medication: Ground Reality:
Dr. Galib, Associate Professor at AIIA, New Delhi, delved into the ground realities of reporting toxicity associated with Ayurvedic medications, shedding light on the challenges and potential solutions.

Toxicity of Ayurvedic Herbs and Formulations: A Critical Analysis:
Dr. Rammanohar P, Research Director at Amrita School of Ayurveda, conducted a critical analysis of the toxicity associated with Ayurvedic herbs and formulations, highlighting areas for improvement and further research.

Pharmacovigilance in Clinical Practice:
Dr. Devipriya Soman, Associate Professor in the Department of Kayachikitsa at Amrita School of Ayurveda, explored the implementation of pharmacovigilance principles in clinical practice, emphasizing the role of healthcare professionals in ensuring patient safety.

Pharmacovigilance in Panchakarma:
Dr. Vishnu U, Associate Professor in the Department of Panchakarma at Amrita School of Ayurveda, discussed the specific challenges and considerations for pharmacovigilance in Panchakarma therapies, offering insights into best practices.

Challenges of Pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda:
Dr. Prajeesh Nath E N, PPvC Coordinator and Assistant Professor in the Department of Rasashastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana at Amrita School of Ayurveda, concluded the seminar by addressing the challenges unique to pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda and proposing strategies for overcoming them.

Dr. Priya S, Professor and Head of the Department of Darvya Guna Vignjan, delivered the closing remarks, summarizing the key insights gained from the seminar and highlighting the importance of continued efforts in ensuring the safety and efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments through pharmacovigilance.

The seminar provided a comprehensive platform for stakeholders in Ayurveda to discuss and address the critical issues surrounding pharmacovigilance, thereby contributing to the advancement and integrity of Ayurvedic healthcare practices.