Knowledge, Perceptions, and Practices of Healthcare Professionals on Pharmacovigilance and Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting at Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital in Rabat

Background Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are a major public health concern and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Pharmacovigilance, developed in response to drug safety incidents such as the thalidomide crisis, plays a key role in monitoring and preventing these reactions. The Centre Anti Poison et de Pharmacovigilance du Maroc (CAPM) coordinates national efforts in Morocco. However, underreporting of ADRs remains a persistent challenge. This study assessed the knowledge, perceptions, and practices of healthcare professionals regarding pharmacovigilance at Cheikh Zaid International University Hospital, identified reporting barriers, and proposed actionable solutions. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September 2023 to March 2024, involving 400 healthcare professionals, including physicians, pharmacists, nurses, and dentists. A structured questionnaire collected data on participants’ understanding of pharmacovigilance, their reporting behaviors, and perceived obstacles. Data were collected via electronic and paper formats and analyzed using Jamovi software with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants provided informed consent. Results Of the respondents, 55% were female and 61.5% were aged 18–28. Physicians formed the largest group (52.8%), followed by pharmacists (26%) and nurses (18%). While 80% were familiar with the concept of pharmacovigilance and 83% acknowledged its importance in clinical practice, only 24% could correctly define an ADR. Key barriers to reporting included lack of knowledge about procedures (70%), unfamiliarity with the process (67%), and time constraints (60%). Structural issues such as the absence of an electronic reporting platform (98%) and the unavailability of forms (70%) also hindered reporting. Reporting was most commonly triggered by dosage errors (69%), therapeutic failure (65%), and drug quality concerns (64%). Conclusion Despite good awareness, reporting practices remain low due to systemic and educational gaps. The study recommends establishing a dedicated pharmacovigilance unit, implementing digital reporting tools, organizing continuous professional training, and educating patients to encourage participation. These steps are essential to promote a robust culture of medication safety.