Rules on Pharmaceutical Advertising in Kenya

INTRODUCTION

Pharmaceutical advertising in Kenya is subject to strict rules and regulations enforced by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB). These regulations aim to ensure the promotion of safe and effective medicines while protecting the public from misleading or false claims. Here are the key rules on pharmaceutical advertising by the Kenya PPB:

1. Registration Requirement:

   • Only medicines and medical devices that are registered with the PPB can be advertised in Kenya.

2. Prohibition on Advertising Prescription-Only Medicines to the General Public:

   • The advertising of prescription only medicines directly to the general public is strictly prohibited in Kenya.

3. Supplements and vitamins are allowed but it comes with a disclaimer:

1. • Dietary supplementation with vitamins should not claim health will be at risk due to lack of supplements.
   • The vitamin supplements are a substitute for a balanced diet.

4. Website advertising

1. • Casual browsers dont get advertisment for specific prescription only medicines through text or small prints at the bottom of the home page.
   • Ensure that any page other than the landing page which the consumer chooses to access contains non-promotional information which is accurate, factual and scientific; not mention any prescription only medicine on the home page;
   • Provide a factual list of prices of prescription only medicines on pages other than the home page and the price list shall not include product claims or actively encourage viewers to choose a product based on the price;
   • Not highlight any special offer on the price of a health product on the website as they are likely to promote irrational use; or
   • Not give free offers of health products during advertisements competitions.

2. Complaints and Appeals Procedure:

   • The PPB has established guidelines for lodging complaints and appeals:
   • Complaints be lodged at the Board through letters, e-mail, telephone, social media (Facebook & twitter), SMS or a duly filed complaint form shall be lodged with the Board in writing, and addressed to:

THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PHARMACY AND POISONS BOARD

LENANA ROAD, OPPOSITE DOD

 P.O BOX 27663-00506

NAIROBI.

CONCLUSION

Kenya has really emphasized on Prescription Only Medicines. This regulation aims to prevent inappropriate or unsafe use of prescription drugs without professional guidance. As we learnt from history of prescription only medicines these drugs are dangerous and when misused.