Earlier the government had plans to make voluntary UCPMP mandatory, now its implementation date has been extended until further notice
The government has extended the time frame for voluntary Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP).
“It has been decided that the UCPMP also covering the medical devices industry which was implemented with effect from January 1, 2015 for a period of six months and which was last extended up to June 30, 2016 is hereby extended till further orders,” informed Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) in a notification.
Earlier this year, the government had said that it is may make the voluntary UCPMP compulsory.
UCPMP aims to check unethical practice of many doctors who often prescribe a particular brand of medicine for personal gains.
Besides, as per the code, the companies can extend funding for medical research and study through approved institutions as per law and it should be fully disclosed.
The code also has stringent measures for audio or video promotional activities and for the supply of free samples of medicines.