Forum

Hi PAAB,

I’m reaching out to request clarification on whether market research results can be used to support claims specifically related to opioids.

Thank you in advance for your guidance on this.

Thank you!

Hi there,

I’m seeking clarification on the rules around formulary messaging. Specifically:

1. I understand that therapeutic claims must be separate from formulary information, but can both appear within the same piece as long as they are clearly distinct?

2. Are formulary claims permitted to be combined with non-therapeutic messages (ex: experience claims)?

3. Finally, can formulary messaging be directed to patients to inform them of coverage in their province? I understand that this is acceptable in a DTC context, but I’d like to confirm whether this is also permitted in patient-directed materials (ex: “Now covered on ODB”).

Thank you for your guidance.

Adelaide

Hi @Jennifer-Carroll
Thank you!

Hi PAAB,

I’m looking for clarification regarding whether patient preference can be cited in a patient profile as an acceptable reason for switching to a different treatment.

Specifically, if Canadian clinical guidelines indicate that patient preference is a legitimate consideration when selecting or switching medications, would it be acceptable to reference, for example, that a patient dislikes oral medications or has difficulty remembering to take pills—as a rationale for considering an injectable treatment instead?

I understand that we must avoid any disparaging remarks about other products or dosage forms. However, if the rationale is grounded in patient preference and is consistent with guideline-based reasoning (even if “preference” is somewhat broadly defined), would this type of messaging be considered acceptable?

Looking forward to your guidance on this.