Pharmacovigilance in Ayurveda: Integrating Classical Drug Safety Principles With Contemporary Pharmacovigilance Systems

Background: Pharmacovigilance (PV) ensures drug safety by monitoring adverse drug reactions and rational drug use. Although systematically developed in modern medicine, its conceptual foundations are deeply embedded in Ayurveda, which emphasizes individualized therapy and prevention of adverse effects. Objective: To critically analyze classical Ayurvedic principles of drug safety and evaluate their relevance in contemporary pharmacovigilance, including adverse drug reactions, contraindications, and drug–diet interactions. Methods: A narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic texts such as Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Rasashastra literature. Relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar focusing on pharmacovigilance, herb–drug interactions, and drug safety. Results: Ayurvedic concepts such as Dravya Pareeksha, Matra, Kala, Anupana, Shodhana, and Viruddha Ahara provide a comprehensive framework for pharmacovigilance. Classical literature describes contraindications, dose-dependent toxicity, incompatible combinations, and adverse effects of improper drug use. Additionally, herb–drug and diet–drug interactions described in Ayurveda parallel modern pharmacological principles, highlighting the scientific relevance of traditional knowledge. Conclusion: Ayurveda inherently incorporates pharmacovigilance principles through a preventive, individualized, and holistic approach. Integrating these concepts with modern pharmacovigilance systems can enhance drug safety, minimize adverse reactions, and promote rational use of herbal medicines.