A new marketing code for pharmaceutical companies released by the Union government has drawn criticism from some doctors and public health campaigners, who argue that it merely serves as a facade to enable firms to persist with unethical practices.
Critics allege that the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices, 2024, a revised version of its 2015 predecessor, retains loopholes that allow drug firms to continue unethical payments to doctors. Despite this, industry associations are backing the code.
The recently released code includes measures to prohibit pharmaceutical companies from offering costly gifts, providing travel and hospitality, and giving monetary incentives to doctors. Yet, critics argue that the guidelines lack enforcement mechanisms, allowing companies to easily circumvent them.
The latest code, which is not compulsory for pharmaceutical companies, is being criticized as ineffective, mirroring sentiments expressed towards its predecessor. The Alliance of Doctors for Ethical Healthcare, a group advocating for legislation on unethical pharmaceutical marketing, shares this view.
Additional penalty provisions include reprimanding the company and recovering the money or gifts provided. In specific instances, industry associations will notify the Department of Pharmaceuticals.
