Pharmacovigilance in focus: a study on pharmacy students’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous reporting of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) is a cornerstone of successful pharmacovigilance programs. Pharmacy students must acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to contribute effectively to these systems. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate pharmacy students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding pharmacovigilance in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a validated, self-administered questionnaire. The survey comprised four domains: demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to pharmacovigilance. Participants included fourth- and fifth-year pharmacy students and interns from King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia. A pilot test was conducted, and internal reliability was confirmed (Cronbach's alpha = 0.844). RESULTS: Of 359 invited students, 329 responded (91.3% response rate). Knowledge scores increased with academic level: Level 7 (6.07), Level 8 (5.37), Level 9 (6.38), Level 10 (6.19), and interns (6.42). Attitude scores ranged from 4.16 in Level 8 students to 5.62 in Level 9 students, with practice scores remaining low across all levels, reflecting limited educational exposure to ADR reporting. The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed significant differences in knowledge and attitude scores (p = 0.042 and p < 0.001, respectively), but not in practice (p = 0.305). CONCLUSION: The findings emphasize the need to enhance pharmacovigilance education through workshops, dedicated modules, and clinical ADR reporting exercises to improve students' preparedness in ensuring medication safety.