Complementary medicines advertising policy Part I: unethical conduct in the Australian market before July 2018.

ConclusionsNumerous complementary medicines (and medical devices) that were extensively advertised failed to meet real health needs, diverted consumers from more evidence-based treatment and wasted their money. The laws to protect consumers were adequate: the problem was lack of enforcement.What is known about the topic?The previous co-regulatory system for complementary medicines has been the subject of long-standing criticism; however, definitive data about the problems were largely unanalysed or disregarded.What does this paper add?This is the first analysis of the Complaints Resolution Panel's determinations over its entire life (1999-June 2018). The paper provides a baseline from which the outcomes of the new complaint system (after July 2018) can be assessed. At that time, the Panel was abolished and the TGA took over the complaint system, with enhanced investigative and enforcement powers. The analysis shows that most complaints received were upheld by the Panel and a small number of sponsors repeatedly breached the Code. TGA post-marketing data from 2014 to 2018 revealed a high level of regulatory non-compliance by listed products, and a 2018 consumer survey showed low levels of trust in the regulatory system.What are the implications for practitioners?The failure of the TGA to ensure regulatory compliance by advertisers of complementary medicines (and medical devices) meant that health practitioners and consumers were unlikely to recognise the extent of misleading an...
Source: Australian Health Review - Category: Hospital Management Authors: Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research