Yes. NDA ensures that any advertisements on medicines whether conventional or tradition/herbal does not mislead the public. Misleading adverts provide inadequate medical information giving undue and false medical advice with unfavorable consequences on the health of the public.This behavior is in violation of the National Drug Policy and Authority Cap 206 of 20000 that prohibits media drug adverts without NDA authorization
Why is it important to regulate drug advertisements?
The pharmaceutical sector provides a valuable and legitimate contribution to society but it is in the same breath a business whose profitability hinges on marketing and sales.
Drug marketeers may compromise ethics,facts, and patient benefit for the allure of profits .It is therefore incumbent upon the authority to protect the public health by ensuring that information provided is accurate representation of the product and fosters rational use.
What process does one have to follow to have and advert on drugs approved?
An applicant who seeks to make a publication or advertisement for a drug should make an application to the Authority using the prescribed application form.The application should be accompanied with a sample of the material for which approval is sought,accompanied with a payment receipt.
An application for publication or advertisement can be made only by;
(a) the holder of the patent of the drug
(b) a licensed person
(c) the manufacturer of the drug; or
(d) an agent authorized by the manufacturer or the holder of the patent of the drug
