Their efforts have been bolstered by the Government’s welcome decision to include producers and distributors of medicines in the ‘key worker’ category, along with so many others involved in health and social care at this very challenging time. Read our statement on this.
We are in constant communication with our members, and on their behalf with other organisations in the UK and internationally, to monitor issues relating to the pandemic and availability of over-the-counter products.
Regulatory flexibilities
Ensuring there is access to medicines and medical devices such as over-the-counter products for symptom relief and medical devices used to diagnose coronavirus is of critical importance.
PAGB is representing its members in discussions with MHRA on identifying additional regulatory flexibilities that could be implemented to support the healthcare products supply chain and wider response to Covid-19 in the UK. Additional flexibilities published so far are available on the MHRA website and cover medical devices, medicines regulation and pharmacovigilance.
More detailed information on PAGB’s work in this area is available to members via our Covid-19 news page and in our regulatory intelligence updates. (PAGB members only)
The Life Sciences Recovery Roadmap
PAGB co-signed a joint report to the Life Sciences Covid-19 Response Group, a ministerial group co-Chaired by Lord Bethell and Nadhim Zahawi MP.
It sets out policy recommendations that will capitalise on progress made on research, diagnostics, supply and innovation in delivery of healthcare during the covid-19 pandemic.
The Roadmap is a collaboration between trade bodies representing the life sciences and charity research sectors.

The pharmaceutical industry response
Our members are manufacturers of over-the-counter medicines, medical devices and food supplements. As companies operating in the life sciences sector, many of whom have their own research functions, they are well placed to use their resources and expertise to support efforts to develop diagnostics and treatments for this new virus. PAGB members are collaborating with other companies and institutions in the UK and globally on testing, treatments, vaccines, PPE and more. Consumer healthcare companies are also supporting NHS, pharmacy and other local groups to deliver support to people in communities across the country,
Find out more about Covid-19 initiatives from PAGB members and associate members.