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Our ServicesPharmacies, Retailers & Online Clinics

All companies advertising products or services must ensure compliance with the relevant advertising codes and guidelines. Advertising healthcare products and services can be especially challenging due to the complex regulations – which differ for each product category. Recently, there has been heightened concern regarding the advertising of prescription-only medicines (POMs) to the public.  

What are the challenges for retailers and retail pharmacies?  

Pharmacies and general retailers sell and advertise healthcare products such as over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, self-care medical devices, cosmetics, and food supplements. The advertising rules for each of these product categories differ significantly. Common advertising pitfalls include: 

  • errors due to unfamiliarity with the applicable advertising codes and guidelines
  • omission of essential information for medicines advertising
  • making medicinal claims for healthcare cosmetics
  • breaching the rules on volume and linked promotions
  • advertising POMs to consumers.

How can online pharmacies, clinics, and telehealth providers avoid breaching the rules?

Online pharmacies, clinics, and telehealth providers often advertise services involving prescription-only medicines (POMs) for conditions such as weight loss, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, low testosterone, menopause and chronic pain. These materials must be produced with great care to comply with the regulations and codes of practice that prohibit the promotion of POMs directly to the public. Failure to comply with these rules is the leading cause of upheld complaints against medicines advertising, and non-compliance can lead to serious professional repercussions for superintendent pharmacists and pharmacy owners. As scrutiny in this area intensifies, tighter regulations and sanctions are being introduced, making it more important than ever to ensure your advertising is fully compliant.

Here’s how AdverCheck can help you avoid issues with your healthcare advertising:

  • Ongoing review of promotional materials incl. social media
  • Advice on the advertising codes & guidelines
  • One-off website check
  • Support for Clearcast & Radiocentre submissions
  • Bespoke training & guidance
  • Help to reduce the risk of complaints & sanctions