Understanding the Differences Between PADER and PSUR/PBRER in Pharmacovigilance
2 min read

Pharmacovigilance, or drug safety monitoring, is crucial in the pharmaceutical industry to ensure drugs remain safe and effective after they reach the market. Two key reports used for this purpose are Periodic Adverse Drug Experience Reports (PADERs) and Periodic Safety Update Reports/Periodic Benefit-Risk Evaluation Reports (PSUR/PBRERs). Let's break down the differences between these reports to understand their unique roles and requirements.

Comparing PADER and PSUR/PBRER

FeaturePADERPSUR/PBRER
ScopeSpecific to the United StatesUsed worldwide
Primary ObjectiveDetailed individual case reportsComprehensive benefit-risk evaluation
Regulatory AuthorityUS FDAVarious global regulatory bodies
GuidelinesUS 21 CFR 314.80ICH E2C R2, EMA Module VII
Content ComplexitySimpler (about 5 sections)More detailed (about 20 sections)
Key Content

- Serious unlisted event cases

 - Regulatory updates

- Regulatory updates 

- Cumulative and interval exposure 

- Clinical trials overview 

- Signal overview

 - Benefit-risk assessment

FrequencyQuarterly for first 3 years, then annuallyEvery six months for first 2 years, then annually
Submission Timeline

- Quarterly: within 30 days of DLP 

- Annual: within 60 days of DLP

- Six-monthly: within 70 days of DLP 

- Annual/Multiyear: within 90 days of DLP

Product CoverageSeparate PADER for each NDA, with some exceptionsOne PSUR/PBRER for different forms or uses of a product

PADER: A Closer Look at the US FDA Requirements

Purpose and Content PADERs are required in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They focus on detailed reports of individual cases, especially those involving death or other serious outcomes. PADERs follow the guidelines of US 21 CFR 314.80 and include around five sections, such as case presentations of serious unlisted events and updates on regulations.

Submission Frequency and Requirements Each New Drug Application (NDA) requires its own PADER, although sometimes one PADER can cover multiple NDAs for different strengths of a drug if justified. These reports are submitted quarterly for the first three years after approval, then annually. Quarterly reports are due within 30 days of the data lock point (DLP), and annual reports are due within 60 days.

PSUR/PBRER: Global Reporting with a Focus on Benefit-Risk Evaluation

Purpose and Content PSUR/PBRERs are used worldwide and are submitted to various regulatory agencies, including those in the European Union, Japan, and Canada. They provide a thorough analysis of a drug's benefits and risks. Following the ICH E2C R2 and European Medicines Agency Module VII guidelines, these reports are more complex, with about 20 sections covering updates on regulations, cumulative and interval exposure, clinical trial summaries, signal overviews, and benefit-risk assessments.

Submission Frequency and Requirements Typically, one PSUR/PBRER is prepared for a drug, covering its different forms, dosages, or uses. For new products, these reports are submitted every six months for the first two years, then annually. Six-month reports are due within 70 days of the DLP, while annual or multiyear reports are due within 90 days.

Key Takeaways

Both PADERs and PSUR/PBRERs are essential for monitoring the safety of drugs, but they differ in scope, complexity, and regulatory requirements. PADERs focus on individual case reports and are specific to the US, while PSUR/PBRERs provide a broader benefit-risk evaluation and are used internationally.

Understanding these differences is important for pharmaceutical companies and those working in drug safety to ensure they meet the necessary regulatory requirements and maintain high standards of drug safety.

Conclusion

Whether it's a PADER or a PSUR/PBRER, the goal is the same- to protect public health by continuously monitoring the safety and effectiveness of drugs. A seasoned regulatory partner like Freyr can facilitate diligence by following the specific guidelines and requirements for each report, pharmaceutical companies can ensure they provide accurate and timely safety information to regulators and healthcare providers.