Revised social media guidance published

The PMCPA has published revised social media guidance as a new dedicated section of its website. The revised guidance has been developed following collaboration with various stakeholders, including the MHRA, ABPI and pharmaceutical company representatives. We would like to thank all the organisations and individuals who provided input.

The revised guidance has a new structure which we hope will assist the reader to more easily find information. The guidance incorporates Q&As and links to numerous completed cases. This dedicated section of the website will be regularly updated to ensure it reflects case precedent and the evolving social media environment.

Sections of the guidance where there have been major updates include:

·       News for an investor audience/the media

·       Clinical trial recruitment

·       Responding to misinformation

·       Pharmacovigilance responsibilities

·       Scope of the ABPI Code

·       Disease awareness campaigns and working with social media influencers

·       Declaration of involvement for sponsored meetings

The above is not an exhaustive list and we strongly recommend companies familiarise themselves with the full new guidance.

The PMCPA can only provide informal guidance. However, this informal guidance reflects case precedent and the PMCPA’s interpretation of the Code, therefore, companies are strongly advised to assess whether their policies and procedures are in line with the guidance.

The PMCPA will publish an on-demand webinar in late February to highlight some of the main updates. If you have a question on the revised social media guidance, please send it to info@pmcpa.org.uk by 20 February and we will look to answer it on the webinar.