What is the difference between the ABPI and the PMCPA?

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) exists to make the UK the best place in the world to research, develop and access medicines and vaccines to improve patient care. It represents companies of all sizes which invest in making and discovering medicines and vaccines to enhance and save the lives of millions of people around the world. In England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the ABPI works in partnership with governments and the NHS so that patients can get new treatments faster and the NHS can plan how much it spends on medicines. The ABPI and its members partner with healthcare professionals, academics and patient organisations to find new solutions to unmet health needs.

The Prescription Medicines Code of Practice Authority (PMCPA) was established by the ABPI in 1993 to administer the ABPI Code independently of the ABPI itself. The PMCPA is responsible for the provision of advice, guidance and training on the ABPI Code, as well as for the operation of the complaints procedure whereby complaints about a pharmaceutical company's materials or activities are considered in relation to the requirements of the ABPI Code.