THE Therapeutic Goods Administration has launched a consultation on proposed improvements to the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code, including seeking comments on a possible framework for the advertising of Schedule 3 (pharmacist-only) medicines to the public.
The move is part of the Expert Review of Medicines and Medical Devices Regulation, which made recommendations in relation to advertising which have been accepted by the government.
A consultation earlier this year saw strong support for permitting the direct to consumer advertising of a wider range of Schedule 3 substances, and a proposed framework has been outlined in the consultation paper.
A range of changes have been proposed including mechanisms for effective sanctions and enforcement of requirements, with the TGA seeking feedback on the development of a new Code that is proposed to contain "clearer and more specific details of what is and is not permitted in respect of advertisements about therapeutic goods" - along with possible guidelines for advertisers.
The consultation paper also canvasses an option for an advertising framework for S3 medicines, allowing them to be advertised directly to consumers via an expansion of Appendix H with additional statements saying "Your pharmacist must decide if this product is suitable for you".
Interested parties should respond by close of business on Fri 13 Oct, with a further round of public consultation on the new draft code planned for late 2017/early 2018.
For more info see tga.gov.au.
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