Code of practice for the pharmaceutical industry/

Abstract

This publication establishes ethical and professional standards governing the promotion and marketing of medicines and interactions between pharmaceutical companies, healthcare professionals, healthcare organisations, and patient organisations. It outlines requirements for responsible pharmaceutical promotion, the preparation and distribution of promotional materials, provision of prescribing information, advertising practices, scientific meetings, sponsorship, hospitality, gifts, and professional engagement. The code also addresses transparency in financial relationships and the disclosure of transfers of value, company responsibilities, employee training, and procedures for handling complaints and imposing sanctions for non-compliance. Edition 8.6 incorporates updated provisions on promotional communications, digital advertising, QR codes, hospitality, and industry accountability. It serves as a reference for promoting integrity, transparency, responsible medicine promotion, and compliance with applicable pharmaceutical industry standards and regulations in Ireland.