ENA Sectors 2025-06-02 16:07:50 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>New Delhi, Jun 2 (KNN)</strong> The Indian government has intensified its oversight of pharmaceutical marketing practices, seeking detailed financial disclosures from companies regarding expenditures on gifts, travel, and other incentives offered to healthcare professionals.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This move aims to enhance transparency and curb unethical promotional activities in the pharmaceutical sector.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">In March 2024, the Department of Pharmaceuticals introduced the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This code prohibits pharmaceutical companies from offering gifts, travel facilities, hospitality, cash, or monetary grants to healthcare professionals or their families.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">It also restricts the supply of free samples to individuals not qualified to prescribe such products.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Despite these regulations, reports indicate that some companies continue to provide various freebies to doctors.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">In response, the government has requested pharmaceutical firms to submit comprehensive financial details related to their marketing expenditures.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This includes information on sponsorships for conferences, seminars, and other promotional activities.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">To ensure compliance, the UCPMP mandates the establishment of an Ethics Committee for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (ECPMP) within each pharmaceutical association.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">These committees are responsible for addressing complaints and ensuring adherence to the code. Violations can lead to penalties, including suspension or expulsion from the association.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The government's actions reflect a commitment to fostering ethical conduct in the pharmaceutical industry and safeguarding the interests of patients.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">By demanding greater transparency and accountability, authorities aim to eliminate undue influence on medical professionals and promote integrity in healthcare practices.</span></p> <p><em><strong><span style="font-size:14px">(KNN Bureau)</span></strong></em></p> 42298 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/ucpmp-2024-to-curb-unethical-marketing-practices-in-pharma-industry 2025-06-02 16:07:50 knnindia.co.in