Strong dose: Govt Ay Make Pharma Code Mandatory.

The self-regulatory draft code for putting an end to unethical marketing practices by pharma companies, formulated by the government, will be made mandatory if not adhered to by companies. This may be the first ever instance of the government talking tough, as nearly all codes discussed till now have been voluntary in nature or self regulatory on companies

The government has said in the draft code that there will be a review after a period of six months from the time it becomes operational, and if it has not been implemented effectively by pharma associations or companies, it would consider making it statutory.

The draft code plans to end unethical sales promotions and ban gifts of any kind. Besides, it says that no pecuniary advantages or benefits in kind may be offered to persons qualified to prescribe. Also, personal gifts or benefits to healthcare professionals (such as tickets to entertainment events) also should not be offered or provided.

All promotional, scientific or professional meetings, and other similar events, sponsored by a pharma company, must be held at an appropriate venue in the country that is conducive to the main purpose of the event.

None of the industry associations TOI spoke to have received any communication from the government on it yet. They said the government wishes to make the code mandatory post review. Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance and Indian Drug Manufacturers' Association said that the industry bodies would study the draft and submit their feedback soon.

Industry body Organisation of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), which already has an existing code for its members, is in the process of comparing the draft with its own 'code of marketing practices'. Ranjit Shahani, president, OPPI, told TOI: "OPPI has a strong marketing code. If at all there are any elements of the new code of DoP (Department of Pharmaceuticals) that override the OPPI code, we will be communicating to all our members to conform to."

"Prima facie, we have not observed any significant differences between the two documents in terms of areas of focus or actionable areas", director general Tapan Ray said. Though the Department of Pharmaceuticals had started work to adopt a uniform code two years back, there was no consensus reached between the industry on formulating one, and hence it was not finalized.

Source : timesofindia.indiatimes.com