The Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products (AMMPS) has issued a reminder to pharmaceutical companies that all medication advertising must undergo prior declaration before dissemination. This move aims to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and promote responsible pharmaceutical communication. According to the agency, recent inspections revealed shortcomings in adherence to this obligation. As a result, the AMMPS has called on concerned operators to strictly respect existing regulations and strengthen internal control mechanisms.
The AMMPS emphasized that any advertising or promotional action related to a medication, as well as associated materials, must be declared beforehand. This requirement is in line with the country's pharmaceutical code and international standards for pharmaceutical information. In March 2026, the agency published guidelines on medication advertising, outlining the necessary procedures for obtaining prior authorization. The guidelines specify that public advertising for a medication is subject to prior authorization from the AMMPS in the form of an advertising visa.
To obtain an advertising visa, pharmaceutical companies must submit a dossier containing several documents, including a signed and stamped letter of request, an updated product characteristics summary, and a note on the proposed advertising project. The visa is granted after review by the National Commission for Marketing Authorization, within a maximum of 60 days from the date of submission of the complete dossier. If the dossier raises concerns, the company has 30 days to provide additional information; otherwise, the application is archived.
The advertising visa is valid for one year, renewable within the limits of the marketing authorization validity. The AMMPS may suspend or withdraw the visa if the marketing authorization for the concerned pharmaceutical product is suspended or withdrawn. Additionally, the agency may suspend or withdraw the visa if the pharmaceutical company fails to comply with the content and messages of the authorized advertising material.
According to the regulations, public advertising for a medication is only allowed if the product is not subject to medical prescription, not reimbursable by health insurance, and its marketing authorization does not include restrictions due to potential public health risks. However, advertising campaigns for vaccines and medications related to family planning or tobacco control may target the public. When authorized, such advertising must include a prudence message and refer to a doctor in case of persistent symptoms.
The AMMPS stressed that respecting these regulations contributes to ensuring responsible, transparent, and compliant pharmaceutical communication, ultimately serving public health and proper medication use. The agency's efforts aim to promote a culture of accountability and transparency within the pharmaceutical industry, protecting consumers and maintaining public trust.
Pharmaceutical companies are expected to adhere to these regulations, ensuring that their advertising practices align with national laws and international standards. By doing so, they can maintain a positive reputation and contribute to the well-being of Moroccan citizens. The AMMPS will continue to monitor and enforce compliance, taking action against companies that fail to meet the required standards.
Key points
- Moroccan pharmaceutical companies must declare medication advertising prior to dissemination.
- Advertising visas are required for public medication advertising and are valid for one year.
- The AMMPS monitors and enforces compliance with advertising regulations to ensure responsible pharmaceutical communication.
