Spontaneous reports of adverse drug reactions are a common source of evidence in pharmacovigilance, but as the science evolves, so do the types of data used to find and assess signals. Uppsala Monitoring Centre’s Daniele Sartori reviews how signal detection practices have changed over time. Tune in to find out:  Which features of case reports are most often used to assess causality Why pharmacovigilance experts should report clinical assessments clearly How to shorten the time between signal detection and communication  Want to know more? Check out the full scoping review that inspired this episode. In 2002, Meyboom and colleagues discussed criteria to select and follow up on signals. In the first chapter of Uncertainty in Pharmacology, Aronson explains the difference between evidence for a mechanism and evidence from a mechanism. In 2018, Murad and colleagues published a method to evaluate the quality of evidence in a series of case reports. UMC scientists have shown how chemical information can support timely signal detection. In partnership with the EHDEN consortium, UMC researchers are exploring whether observational health data can assist signal prioritisation and validation – more on that in the next episode!  Join the conversation on social media Follow us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn and share your thoughts about the show with the hashtag #DrugSafetyMatters. Got a story to share? We’re always looking for new content and interesting people to interview. If you have a great idea for a show, get in touch! About UMC Read more about Uppsala Monitoring Centre and how we work to advance medicines safety.