Pharmaceutical marketing practices – The situation today

Marketing practices in the pharmaceutical industry are the focus of increasing expectations from stakeholders today. In view of the regional differences in regulations, sanofi-aventis ensures the most stringent compliance with regulations in force worldwide, in addition to its principles of Good Promotional Practices.

Pharmaceutical product promotion is governed by national regulations and codes developed collectively by pharmaceutical companies.

The pharmaceutical industry's marketing practices are the focus of increasing expectations from stakeholders today, in particular consumer advocacy groups. Consumers International published a report entitled "Branding the Cure" in June 2006. The report focuses on 20 pharmaceutical companies in Europe and calls upon them to participate in a joint initiative with consumers' associations, government and the European Union, aiming to:

develop guidelines and common indicators for reporting on the responsible promotion of pharmaceuticals;
ensure respect for the industry's codes of ethics, standards and regulations;
strengthen existing codes concerning the utilization of the Internet, patient organizations and disease awareness campaigns;
suggest alternatives to self-regulation alone.

How sanofi-aventis communicates about its products:

Sanofi-aventis process of communication about its products

As a member of the I.F.P.M.A, sanofi-aventis adheres to the principles of this international federation. Similarly, the Group ensures the most stringent compliance with regulations in force. The brochure concerning the "Principles of Good Promotional Practices" upheld by the Group offers a concise review of the rules that must be followed.