The Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers association Code of Conduct: Guiding the promotion of prescription medicines
Date
1999
Authors
Roughead, E.E.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Australian Prescriber, 1999; 22(4):78-80
Statement of Responsibility
Conference Name
Abstract
Promotional messages are designed to be persuasive. Pharmaceutical promotion can influence not only the use of a product, but also our beliefs about medicines. For this reason, it is essential that promotional information is accurate, balanced and not misleading. In Australia, the promotion of prescription medicines is regulated by legislation and guided by the Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association Code of Conduct. The Code sets standards for promotional activities, including the information content. The system is dependent upon a complaints mechanism for ensuring that promotion complies with the Code, as most promotional material is not monitored by an independent body before publication. Health professionals should lodge complaints against misleading or inappropriate promotion to enhance the effectiveness of the system.