New patient-centric drug safety alert system launched

iGuard, a new program that alerts patients to safety updates for the medications they take, has been launched. The service will provide nationwide electronic notices to patients as new drug safety information emerges. Patients using iGuard will also be able to check drug interactions and receive personalized alerts and recall notices when they occur. The company receives information for its alerts from the FDA, medical journals, and pharmaceutical manufacturers. According to the company, the free service will enable patients to take an active role in managing their health. iGuard recently dispatched its first nationwide alert to more than 400 registrants taking gabapentin after Ranbaxy Laboratories voluntarily initiated a recall of the drug. To register, patients should visit