Rethinking The Civil Protection Of Patients From Misleading Pharmaceutical Marketing Under Saudi Lawrethinking The Civil Protection Of Patients From Misleading Pharmaceutical Marketing Under Saudi Law

Abstract

The effect of pharmaceutical marketing on individuals is a universal concern. It can influence patients' health and wealth. Patients, as well as their prescribing medical doctors, have been targeted by such marketing through different means. Many patients are unaware of their position as the most vulnerable party in this context and how these promotional strategies affect their physicians' decisions. When pharmaceutical marketing includes false, misleading, or otherwise negligent statements, patients become potential victims. This research addresses patients' civil protection from misleading pharmaceutical marketing under Saudi law. The study addresses four crucial aspects of patient protection: (i) ex-ante government regulations, (ii) civil liability, (iii) compensatory damages, and (iv) access to justice. The study will also explore and identify major challenges confronting the current legal efforts and suggest solutions to contribute to developing patients’ protection from misleading drug marketing in Saudi Arabia.