Promotional samples – The situation today

The distribution of free samples is part of pharmaceutical product promotion. Samples must always be distributed in compliance with the rules defined by the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (I.F.P.M.A) and legislation in force locally.

Sanofi-aventis adheres strictly to the IFPMA Code concerning the promotion of pharmaceutical products and complies with local regulations. These documents define the rules that apply to the distribution of samples.

The Group's "Principles of Good Promotional Practices" outlines these rules.

Sanofi-aventis Code of Ethics

"Particular attention is paid to regulations governing trials and the production, promotion, and distribution of our products, and specifically to the following:

Good Laboratory Practices
Good Clinical Practices
Good Manufacturing Practices
Side effects of medicines and communication relating to them
Labelling, prescribing information, and information for patients
Publicity and promotion, including the distribution of samples,
Regulation of the price of pharmaceutical products by public authorities"

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