Indonesia’s National Health Day, commemorated annually on 12 November, serves as a reminder of the importance of strengthening healthcare systems, improving patient safety, and promoting evidence-based research and innovation. In line with these goals, one of the most pressing global health concerns today is drug overdose, which may result not only from illicit drug use but also from medication errors, inappropriate prescribing, drug interactions, self-medication, and limited health literacy.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), drug overdose remains a significant global public health challenge, contributing to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year. Preventing overdose requires a comprehensive approach that includes rational medicine use, timely antidote administration, recognition of drug interactions, responsible use of digital health information, and strong interprofessional collaboration among healthcare professionals.

Particular attention is needed for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and patients receiving polypharmacy, who face a higher risk of medication-related harm. Addressing these challenges demands evidence-based solutions, interdisciplinary collaboration, and continuous public education.

PILLARS (International Pharmacy Collaboration on Research and Science) is an international academic competition under the theme "Overdose." Through the Scientific Poster and Mini Review competitions, students of pharmacy, medicine, and public health are encouraged to explore overdose-related issues from multidisciplinary perspectives, including toxicity mechanisms, antidote therapy, drug interactions, medication safety, digital health literacy, and overdose prevention strategies.

The competition aims to strengthen participants' scientific and critical thinking skills, foster international collaboration, and inspire innovative, evidence-based solutions that contribute to safer medication use and improved global public health.