PMCPA publishes public consultation on proposed amendments to the ABPI Code of Practice for the Pharmaceutical Industry

The consultation has been released in two parts. Phase one was published on 28 June 2010 and includes proposed amendments for the provision of promotional aids (Appendices 1 & 2). Responses to phase one must be with the PMCPA by 13 August 2010.

Phase two (Appendix 3) was published on 4 August 2010 and includes proposals for increased transparency regarding pharmaceutical companies employing health professionals and others to act as consultants. Responses to phase two must be with the PMCPA by 1 September 2010 if possible but by no later than 14 September 2010.

The Code applies to the promotion of medicines to members of the UK health professions and appropriate administrative staff. It also applies to a number of areas which are non-promotional, including information made available to the public about prescription only medicines. The Code was last updated in 2008.

Full consultation documents are available on the PMCPA website www.pmcpa.org.uk. All responses should be sent to consultations@pmcpa.org.uk.