New marketing code for Indian drug companies favours the companies, critics say

A new code of marketing practice for the drug industry is being drawn up by the Indian government aimed at stopping the provision of gifts to doctors by drug companies to promote their products.

It lays down that “No gifts, pecuniary advantages or benefits in kind may be supplied, offered or promised to persons qualified to prescribe or supply by a pharmaceutical company.” But it also says that “Companies may legitimately provide assistance that is directly related to the bona fide continuing education of the healthcare professionals.” …