July 2006: Need for Canadian Practitioners to Assist with Review of Proposed Drug Names
With a mission to lower the risk of medication errors, Med-E.R.R.S., (a subsidiary of ISMP [US]), works proactively with pharmaceutical companies to test trademark drug names and package labelling. As part of the process, Med-E.R.R.S. incorporates feedback from health care practitioners regarding the potential for similarity of potential drug names or packages with products currently on the market.A new Health Canada requirement for manufacturers to test proposed drug names for safety before submission for approval has created an urgent need for Canadian health care providers in active practice (e.g., nurses, pharmacists, physicians) to assist the Med-E.R.R.S. team of professionals to review labels, packaging, and nomenclature. The time commitment for each project is usually 20–30 minutes, and an honorarium is offered to practitioners. ISMP Canada encourages Canadian practitioners to take advantage of this unique opportunity to help make a difference in medication safety. Sign up to “Become a Reviewer” at www.med-errs.com.
