Pharmaceutical Industry's Code Research Articles

Nurse prescribing ethics and medical marketing

This article suggests that nurse prescribers require an awareness of key concepts in ethics, such as deontology and utilitarianism to reflect on current debates and contribute to them. The principles of biomedical ethics have also been influential in the development of professional codes of conduct. Attention is drawn to the importance of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry's code of practice for the pharmaceutical industry in regulating marketing aimed at prescribers.

DOCTORS AND THE DRUG MAKERS

The relationship between the drug industry and the medical profession has become corrupt, resulting in a loss of public confidence. Causes are conventional drug promotion tactics and industry support of postgraduate medical education and research. Twelve of the fourteen members of the committee that monitors the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry's code of practice are from industry. An increase of non-industrial members and extended powers of expulsion or suspension of offending firms are advocated. Research collaboration between the medical profession and the pharmaceutical industry is considered to be essential; however, trials and investigations involving volunteers or patients should be overseen by ethics committees. Ultimately, responsibility for improving the relationship lies mainly with the medical profession.

Are package inserts really necessary?

In the United States control of drugs is more rigid than it is here. All dosage forms of all drugs (except a few very old-established preparations such as digitalis) must be accompanied by a package insert. However the leaflets probably have as little influence as they do at present in Britain. In both countries, the present content of the leaflet is qualitatively similar: the chemistry, pharmacology, indications for use and dosage, the precautions and side effects are summarised. American manufacturers may have to deal more fully with adverse effects of their drugs than do British manufacturers who are under no legal obligation to do so, although the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry Code of Practice requires mention of unwanted effects. However the pharmacists of both countries often remove the package insert before they hand over the medication. Even if this practice were prohibited, it would still be a problem to provide leaflets to accompany medicines dispensed from bulk packs.