Guidance on how pharmaceutical companies communicate about prescription drugs has been updated in the UK, covering the use of social media channels for the first time.
Documents from the Prescription Drug Code of Practice Authority (PMCPA) found several drug companies found to have violated the code of practice set by the association by making promotional statements on social media platforms (including LinkedIn and Instagram). Arrived with a case. of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (APBI).
The PMCPA is an independent body that administers the ABPI Code. The ABPI Code covers the promotion of prescription medicines to health professionals and other relevant decision makers in the UK and information available to the public. We have worked with industry, ABPI and the UK regulator MHRA to develop the guidance.
Complaints backed by the PMCPA last year included two against AstraZeneca and Allergan, where social media updates were posted and/or “liked” even when the original update was posted outside the UK. ” was considered propaganda.
of guide (PDF) clearly clarifies this provision. Employee posts and social news feeds may be subject to the ABPI code.”
This document covers both the company’s use of the company’s social media channels and the personal use of those channels by employees, as well as clinical trial recruitment, patient support, working with influencers, job advertisements, and product announcements. It covers the use of social media in situations such as: Or pipeline milestones.
Includes examples of proper use of social media in these settings.
Sections also cover the use of links and hashtags, and explain the difference between signposting and posting, and sharing and resharing.
PMCA Director Alex Fell said: “With its broad reach and international audience, information about medicines can be seen by audiences for which it was not intended.”
To help communicate the new guidance, the PMCPA will host two webinars next month for businesses and media organizations. February 9 When February 21st.
