Advertising Code

Since 1919 PAGB has operated a pre-publication approval system for member companies’ consumer advertising. It is a condition of PAGB membership that companies ensure that all over-the-counter medicines advertising, aimed at both consumers and trade, complies with the PAGB Medicines Advertising Codes. The PAGB Professional Code operates through consideration of post-event complaints.

The ‘PAGB Medicines Advertising Codes for OTC Medicines’ apply to over-the-counter medicines which are subject to a marketing authorisation.

Download a summary version of the Codes here: PAGB Medicines Advertising Code.

The full version is available to members on request. To download the order form click here

Following a Committee on Human Medicines (CHM) review in July 2009, PAGB has also prepared a guideline on the new requirements for the advertising of codeine and dihydrocodeine-containing medicines.

This is available to download: PAGB’s Best Practice Guideline on the Advertising and Promotion of Over-the-Counter Medicines containing Codeine and Dihydrocodeine

PAGB also produces a ‘Guideline on Consumer Promotions and PR Activities for OTC Medicines’. To request a copy click here

Advertising Complaints
PAGB publishes the outcomes of complaints investigated under the PAGB Professional Code.
To view the case reports click here

Food Supplement Advertising
PAGB operates a pre-publication approval system for member companies’ consumer advertising and packaging.

Click here to request a copy of ‘PAGB’s Food Supplement Advertising Guideline’