Forum Update: Supporting Community-Led Discussion
The forum was created as a space for shared learning and peer support, and as the community grows, we want to lean more fully into that purpose.
Going forward, PAAB will be taking a more listening-first role in forum discussions. Rather than responding immediately to every question, we’ll be encouraging members to engage with one another, share experiences, and help build collective understanding. PAAB will continue to monitor conversations and will step in to:
- Correct any misunderstandings
- Provide guidance when questions remain unanswered after a few days
- Support discussions where official clarification is needed
Our goal is to foster a collaborative, trusted community where knowledge is shared and strengthened by everyone’s contributions.
Thank you for being part of the conversation.
Information about controlled substance advertising regulations
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Hi PAAB, what are some good resources to learn more about discussing controlled substances with HCPs including promo, rep activities, sampling, etc?
Hello @gbrl88 ,
We’ll begin by reiterating that promotion of these products to the public is strictly prohibited. Now onto your question. With regards to HCP advertising, the provisions of the PAAB Code apply to all healthcare products including narcotics and controlled drugs.The Food and Drugs Act, the Food and Drug Regulations, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Narcotic Control Regulations outline Federal requirements pertaining to promotional materials and promotional activities (including sampling). Note that provinces may also impose additional local restrictions pertaining to sampling activities. The Innovative Medicines Canada Code of Ethical Practices also contains standards pertaining to the activity of sampling.
You may have heard that Health Canada has recently amended healthcare product sampling laws. These amendments came into effect on July 1, 2020. But they do NOT impact sampling pertaining to controlled drugs.Importantly, for opioids (specifically those on Part B of the Opioids list), Health Canada has established Terms and Conditions that must be adhered. This was followed by additional restrictions on marketing of opioids.
Does anyone in this community use additional resources pertaining to the question? If so, sharing is caring! Post them in this thread.
