Mass delays drug and device marketing law

The Massachusetts, USA, Department of Public Health has delayed the implementation of marketing legislation intended to establish a marketing code of conduct that is "at least as restrictive" as that enforced by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) and the Advanced Medical Technology Association (the AdvaMed Code). The decision means that the earliest date for a vote on implementation is February 2009.

Under the state's currently envisaged regulations, more stringent restrictions on drugmakers would apply to meals provided to physicians, the sponsorship of continuing medical education and payments to health care professionals. Firms are to be required to file regular reports to the DPH on staff training and compliance, as well as on all payments, fees and economic benefits to health care providers worth $50 or more.