ETHICS IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

ETHICS IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY

Ethics, the study of moral principles and duties, plays a pivotal role in shaping behavior within the pharmaceutical field. It involves a system of principles or guidelines designed to steer the conduct of specific groups, such as professionals in the industry. The development of a Code of Ethics serves as an indicator of the maturation and expansion of moral awareness.

Distinguishing between Ethics and Law, one can note that Law encompasses the rules binding all individuals in a society, while Ethics pertains to regulations established by a profession to govern its members' actions and uphold standards.

A paramount distinction lies in the enforcement mechanisms for these rules. Legal violations result in penalties like fines or imprisonment. In contrast, breaches of ethical standards can lead to professional privileges being revoked. Professional ethical codes often establish conduct standards that differ from legal norms. While the law might prevent causing harm, it cannot compel individuals to aid others in times of need—a domain inherent to ethical principles.

Illustrating this contrast, the Drugs and Cosmetic Act and Rules inhibit the sale of substandard drugs by pharmacists, yet fail to prevent the sale of medications at prices lower than competitors, which is deemed unethical. Such behaviors, beyond the scope of legal frameworks, find resolution in codes of ethics. For instance, a pharmacist should not manage a medical store while intoxicated—a tenet of ethical conduct. This underscores that a lack of ethics renders an individual uncivilized even within a civilized society.

 Difference Between Law and Ethics

1. 1. Nature and Origin:

• Law: Law consists of a set of rules and regulations that are established and enforced by a governing authority (such as a government). It is a formal system that is legally binding and enforced through the legal system.
• Ethics: Ethics refers to a set of moral principles and values that guide human behavior. It is based on individual or collective beliefs about what is right and wrong. Ethics is not enforced by a governing body but relies on personal or societal values. 

2. Source of Authority:

• Law: Laws are enacted by legislative bodies or other authoritative entities within a legal system. They carry the force of the government and are backed by legal consequences.
• Ethics: Ethics are derived from cultural, religious, philosophical, or personal beliefs. They are not enforced by legal authorities but rather shape personal character and social norms. 

3. Enforcement:

• Law: Violations of laws can result in legal consequences, such as fines, imprisonment, or other penalties, imposed by the legal system.
• Ethics: Violations of ethical principles may result in social consequences, damage to reputation, loss of trust, and impact on personal or professional relationships, but not legal penalties. 

4. Universality:

• Law: Laws are often universally applicable within a specific jurisdiction, applying to all individuals within that jurisdiction equally.
• Ethics: Ethical principles can vary significantly based on cultural, religious, and individual perspectives. What is considered ethical in one context might not be in another. 

5.  Flexibility:

• Law: Laws are relatively rigid and may take time to change or adapt to evolving societal norms.
• Ethics: Ethical principles are more flexible and can evolve over time as societies change and progress. 

6. Scope:

• Law: Laws cover a wide range of areas, including criminal, civil, commercial, and administrative matters, and often focus on minimum acceptable standards of behavior.
• Ethics: Ethics can cover a broader range of human actions and decisions, including matters not explicitly addressed by laws. They often reflect higher standards of conduct beyond what is legally required. 

7. Compulsory vs. Voluntary:

• Law: Compliance with laws is mandatory and legally binding for all individuals within the jurisdiction, irrespective of personal beliefs.
• Ethics: Adherence to ethical principles is voluntary and based on personal or collective beliefs about what is right. It allows for individual discretion in making ethical choices. 

8. Consequences:

• Law: Violating laws can result in formal legal actions and penalties, such as fines or imprisonment.
• Ethics: Violating ethical principles can lead to social censure, damaged relationships, loss of trust, and reputational harm.

In summary, while both law and ethics guide human behavior and influence decision-making, they differ in their sources of authority, enforcement mechanisms, universality, and flexibility. Law is enforced by legal authorities and carries formal consequences, while ethics are based on moral principles and voluntary adherence to social norms.

 PHARMACEUTICAL CODE OF ETHICS

Developing Professional Competence and Integrity

Education in a profession necessitates competence within that field, grounded in an understanding of its societal context. Practitioners must blend professional skill with social awareness, as competence and ethical behavior are pillars of any profession's practice. Ethical codes are the lifeblood of professions, shaping their identity and existence.

Within the pharmaceutical realm, a collective responsibility exists to ensure that aspiring pharmacists comprehend and adhere to professional conduct standards. Deviating from these standards imperils the integrity of the pharmacy profession, which requires knowledge, skill, and integrity. This profession collaborates with medicine to preserve public health, dispensing remedies that may be curative or hazardous. Thus, a shared ethical foundation is vital in interactions among pharmacists, the medical fraternity, and the public.

 UPHOLDING PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

 Ensuring Quality Service and Social Responsibility

Establishing standards of professional conduct within pharmacy serves the public interest, guaranteeing the provision of effective pharmaceutical services. These standards extend beyond mere service provision; they encompass conscientiousness in acts and omissions. Pharmacists, as custodians of health, must maintain a strong societal commitment and a spirit of service, recognizing their responsibility alongside medical professionals in safeguarding public well-being.

Collaboration and mutual aid among pharmacists are paramount, as is shouldering professional obligations for the greater societal good.

 PHARMACISTS AND THEIR ROLE

 Delivering Pharmaceutical Services with Integrity

1. Pharmacists must offer comprehensive pharmaceutical services promptly, including emergency supplies.
2. Services that includes over the counter medicines without any dalay.

 Managing Pharmacies

1. Every pharmacy should be overseen by a qualified pharmacist, who ensures proper conduct and adherence to standards.
2. Pharmacy layout must prevent accidental contamination during preparation, dispensing, and supply.
3. Pharmacy premises should reflect professionalism and highlight the establishment's dedication to pharmaceutical practice.

 Handling Prescriptions

1. Pharmacists should avoid discussing prescription merits and flaws with patients or others.
2. Their expression should remain neutral after receiving prescriptions to uphold patients' trust in prescribers.
3. Altering prescriptions requires prescriber consent, except in emergencies; errors warrant prescriber correction or approval without tarnishing their reputation.
4. Recommending prescribers should occur only upon request.

 Managing Drugs and Ingredients

1. Precise measurement of ingredients is crucial when dispensing prescriptions.
2. Exclusive use of drugs and medicinal products of standardized quality is a must.
3. Avoid supplying drugs with potential for addiction or abuse unless required for valid medical purposes.

 Providing Practical Training

1. Instructors must ensure trainees acquire necessary skills during practical training.
2. Certification should be granted post completion of requisite training and adequate knowledge acquisition.

By adhering to these ethical guidelines, pharmacists not only uphold their profession but also contribute to the well-being of society they serve.