Code of Conduct - Question & Answers

13. Advisory Boards - February 2005
 
Question 1:
What are your rules on "consultations"? Does this event conform to your new guidelines?

Last night I attended the first Biovail "consultation". It was basically a sales job for Tiazac XC. I donated the $350 honorarium to McGill University. Then they handed out another invitation (see below). Another "consultation". This time for $400 and our spouses also get to enjoy the 'souper-spectacle' at the Casino for free. I don't know what this show normally costs.

Do you still think this is ethical?

Response:
1. Section 13 of our Code of Conduct prohibits this type of activity.
2. “We urge all companies that market or sell pharmaceuticals, but are not members of Rx&D, to follow this Code also. Because Biovail is a non-member, Rx&D has no empowerment to enforce this Code upon them. The CEO of Biovail, and the President of the Canadian Drug Manufacturers Association should be made aware of this questionable activity.