The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) recently issued a reminder to manufacturers and marketers about complying with advertising rules for therapeutic goods on social media. This reminder comes in response to a rise in non-compliant cases, highlighting the need to adhere to the TGA’s guidelines for public safety and product credibility.
Key Rules for Advertising Therapeutic Goods
To ensure compliance, here are some essential rules to follow:
- No Misleading or False Claims
Advertisements must be accurate and supported by evidence. Exaggerating benefits or making unproven claims is prohibited.
- Registered or Listed Goods Only
Only therapeutic goods approved and listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) can be advertised.
- Follow Endorsement and Testimonial Rules
Advertisements can include endorsements and testimonials if they comply with Part 6 of the TGA Code. They must align with the product's label, approved uses, and typical benefits. Testimonials cannot come from marketers, healthcare professionals, or government bodies, and the advertiser must verify the content and source.
- Avoid Unapproved Indications
Goods must not be advertised for uses that are not approved by the TGA, such as claiming to cure serious conditions.
- Present Risks, Benefits, and Health Warnings Clearly
Information should cover both benefits and risks, with health warnings prominently displayed. For social media, mandatory warnings must be visible at all times—not hidden in collapsed sections—or they won't meet the requirement for clear communication.
- Social Media Influencer Advertising
Influencers promoting therapeutic goods must comply with TGA rules and avoid making unverified therapeutic claims.
The TGA’s reminder comes amid a rise in cases of non-compliance, particularly on social media. The informal nature of social media can lead to unintentional violations, such as using hyperbolic language, unclear labeling of ads, or images suggesting unapproved benefits. The increase in misleading advertisements poses risks to consumer safety, prompting the TGA to take enforcement actions to uphold public health standards.
To maintain compliance, advertisers should carefully review the TGA’s guidelines, especially for social media promotions, and ensure all content aligns with regulatory requirements.
The TGA’s reminder highlights the critical need to adhere to advertising rules to maintain public trust and safety in therapeutic goods. Qualtech Consulting Corporation is here to support your compliance needs. Our experts can guide you through these regulatory changes and ensure your medical devices meet all requirements. Stay ahead of future updates—partner with us to receive timely alerts on regulatory changes that could impact your products.
Contact us today to learn more about our tailored consulting services and how we can help you achieve and maintain market access in Australia.
Reference:
Guidance on advertising therapeutic goods on social media