Health Canada has recently released updates applicable to Natural Health Products and Non-Prescription Drug Regulations. Beginning July 1st, associated industries will be able to distribute certain types of these products as free samples.

Distribution of NHP and Non-Prescription Drug Products as free samples was previously not permitted for those other than physicians, dentists, veterinarian surgeons, and pharmacists, according to Section 14 of the Food and Drug Act. Free samples of these types of products will soon be available to consumers and practitioners as well. Natural health products are those such as toothpastes. Such non-prescription drug products include mouthwashes, sunscreens, and medicated skin care products. A full list of the products under these new regulations are listed on List A: List of Certain Natural Health Products for Distribution as Samples (List A) of the Natural Health Products Regulations (NHPR) and List D: List of Certain Non-prescription Drugs for Distribution as Samples. These new regulations will not be applicable to drugs for veterinary use. Health Canada has also released a guidance document in order to assist.

The new regulations are to ensure safety, efficacy, quality standards, and restriction/conditions are met to ensure safety of products continues with distribution of samples. For more information, please contact Focal Point Research Inc. We are leading North American Regulatory and New Product Consultants for Medical Devices, Natural Health Products, OTC Drugs, Cosmetics, and other consumer products regulated by Health Canada and the U.S. FDA.