The tragic impact of thalidomide in the 1960s prompted major reforms in drug safety regulations.

Today, countries like South Africa enforce stricter drug testing protocols. Pharmaceutical companies are required to actively monitor adverse events, and both healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report any issues promptly.

Patient care emphasises counselling to support medication adherence. Anti-cancer drugs, due to their high-risk profiles, require close monitoring, and recent innovations—such as mobile applications—are enhancing the efficiency of pharmacovigilance systems.