AUTH/2461/12/11: Anonymous v AstraZeneca — complaint about representative conduct (no breach) | PMCPA Case

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Key facts

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Case number	AUTH/2461/12/11
Parties	Anonymous v AstraZeneca
Issue	Conduct of a representative (professionalism, access behaviour, alleged diary distribution, alleged discussion of an unlicensed medicine)
Complaint received	02 December 2011
Case completed	05 January 2011 (as stated in the case material)
Applicable Code year	2011
Clauses considered	2, 3.1, 15.2, 15.4, 15.9, 18.1, 9.1
Outcome	No breach of the Code
Appeal	No appeal
Additional sanctions	None stated

Reviewed by Dr Anzal Qurbain (FFPM) — ABPI Final Signatory

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An anonymous complainant (described as a “very disappointed practice manager”) questioned the integrity and professionalism of an AstraZeneca representative.
Allegations included: rudeness/ill-mannered conduct, lack of respect for busy schedules, lateness to meetings, intimidating reception staff, and waiting for doctors in car parks to speak to them.
The complainant alleged the representative gave out diaries with meeting/lunch dates already pencilled in.
The complainant alleged the representative spoke to a doctor about a type 2 diabetes medicine that was “not even licensed in the UK”.
AstraZeneca investigated (interviewed the representative, managers, colleagues/partners and health professionals) and stated it found no evidence to support the allegations; the representative denied key points (car park conversations, diary distribution, unlicensed promotion).
AstraZeneca noted the representative’s manner was regarded by some as “slightly eccentric”, producing varied reactions; managers had coached the representative.
The Panel noted the complainant was anonymous and non-contactable, and provided no evidence; this limited the ability to test disputed factual claims.

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No breach of the Code was ruled.
No breach of Clauses 15.2 and 15.4 (representative conduct / not causing inconvenience).
No breach of Clause 18.1 (provision of diaries/promotional aids as alleged).
No breach of Clauses 3.1 and 15.9 (promotion of an unlicensed medicine as alleged).
No breach of Clause 9.1 and consequently no breach of Clause 2.

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