The present article aims to propose and to describe the investigation in field pharmacoepidemiology as having a major role in pharmacovigilance by municipal, state and federal governments to manage drug-related reports, communication and information in the media. First, pharmacovigilance is put into context, by including its concepts, events of interest and main functions. Subsequently, field pharmacoepidemiology investigation oriented to the twelve steps is described. Then, we present a general picture of the investigation in field pharmacoepidemiology conducted in Brazil. Finally, we argue that investigation in field pharmacoepidemiology is an important tool to improve measures in pharmacovigilance and to improve patient safety in the country.
Health Services Epidemiology; Pharmacoepidemiology; Product Surveillance; Health Surveillance; Outbreak; Drug Toxicity
