What's Happening?
Angelini Pharma has been reprimanded by the Prescription Medicines Code of Practice Authority (PMCPA) for allowing disparaging remarks about the European Medicines Agency (EMA) during a promotional meeting. The criticism was directed at the EMA's decision
to approve Angelini's epilepsy drug Ontozry only as an adjunct therapy, not as a monotherapy. A complaint from a former employee highlighted the company's failure to appropriately brief the speaker and correct the statements made. The PMCPA found Angelini in breach of several elements of the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) code, including inadequate briefing and promotion inconsistent with the drug's marketing authorization.
Why It's Important?
This incident raises concerns about the adherence to ethical standards in pharmaceutical promotions. The breach of the ABPI code by Angelini Pharma could undermine trust in the industry and highlight the need for strict compliance with regulatory standards. It also emphasizes the importance of accurate communication regarding drug approvals and indications, which is crucial for maintaining public confidence in pharmaceutical products. The ruling may prompt other companies to review their promotional practices to avoid similar breaches and ensure compliance with industry codes.
