What happened: Uniform Code of Pharmaceuticals Marketing Practices, 2024 notified
The Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers issued the Uniform Code of Pharmaceuticals Marketing Practices, 2024 on 12 March 2024 to prevent unethical marketing and to ensure responsible promotion of pharmaceutical products.
The code regulates interactions between doctors/Registered Medical Practitioners (RMPs) and representatives of pharmaceutical companies. Pharmaceutical companies are made accountable for the actions of their medical representatives and other employees.
The code covers promotion of drugs among doctors/RMPs and sets compliance expectations for pharmaceutical companies.
Background and earlier position: regulation of promotion through professional ethics and industry conduct
India has long relied on professional conduct and ethics expectations for medical practitioners. The Uniform Code of Pharmaceuticals Marketing Practices, 2024 positions the industry side—pharmaceutical companies and their representatives—within a clearer promotion ethics rulebook linked to continuing education events and promotional expenditures.
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