Tag: Mhra

Since its EU-wide implementation in 2013, the black inverted triangle (▼) has marked medicines under *additional monitoring*. So, what is the black triangle in pharmacy? It's a key part of post-marketing drug surveillance designed to collect more real-world safety data after a product is authorized for widespread use.

According to a 2023 study of melatonin supplements in Canada, product content varied wildly, from 83% less to 478% more than the labeled dose. This severe lack of quality control is a primary reason why melatonin is not available over-the-counter in most of Europe, where it is classified as a medicine rather than a dietary supplement.

The UK's Yellow Card scheme, run by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), has been vital in identifying previously unknown safety issues with medicines since its inception. This voluntary reporting system depends on healthcare professionals and the public understanding what is the criteria for a yellow card submission.

Since 2013, all EU countries have used a black inverted triangle on medicine information leaflets to signify that a drug is under additional monitoring. But **what does the black triangle mean on drugs** and why is this symbol so important for patient safety and ongoing pharmacovigilance efforts?

In the UK, medicines are placed into three main legal categories that control their supply [1.6.3]. One of the most important is 'POM'. So, what does the p of pom stand for? It signifies **Prescription**, a critical designation for patient safety [1.2.4].