Key Documents to know for Pharma Parallel traders in EU and UK
- aleshchenko3
- Apr 5, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 8, 2024

Title: “Navigating Medicinal Product Regulations: A Comprehensive Guide”
Intro:
Welcome to our blog post on medicinal product regulations! Whether you’re a curious consumer or a seasoned industry professional, understanding the rules governing medicines is crucial. In this article, we’ll demystify the jargon, explore key directives, and shed light on parallel imports. Buckle up—it’s a wild ride through the
world of pharmaceuticals!
EU Directive 2001/83/EC: This directive, issued by the European Parliament and the Council, establishes the Community code relating to medicinal products for human use. It covers aspects such as marketing authorizations, safety, and quality standards for medicines within the EU1.
EU Regulation (EC) No 726/2004: This regulation lays down Community procedures for the authorization and supervision of medicinal products for human and veterinary use. It also establishes the European Medicines Agency (EMA). The goal is to ensure high standards of quality, safety, and innovation in medicines2.
Principle of Exhaustion of Rights within the EU: This principle states that once protected goods (such as trademarked products) have been placed on the market within the European Union, the intellectual property owner’s rights are exhausted. In other words, they cannot prevent further movement or resale of these goods within the EU3.
The Medicines for Human Use (Marketing Authorisations Etc.) Regulations 1994 (UK): These regulations implement EU directives and provisions related to marketing authorizations for medicinal products. They ensure quality, safety, and proper control of medicines in the UK4
So, before you go through those documents let us help you with a very high fly helicopter view.
1. EU Directive 2001/83/EC: We delve into the nitty-gritty of this directive, which harmonizes medicinal product regulations across the EU. From marketing authorizations to safety protocols, it’s the backbone of pharmaceutical oversight.
2. EU Regulation (EC) No 726/2004: Meet the regulation that birthed the European Medicines Agency (EMA). We’ll break down its impact on drug approvals, supervision, and innovation. Spoiler alert: It’s not just about paperwork; it’s about saving lives.
3. Exhaustion of Rights: Ever wondered why you can buy that fancy French perfume in London? We spill the beans on the exhaustion principle. Hint: It involves trademarks, parallel imports, and a dash of legal magic.
4. UK’s Medicines Regulations: Our journey wouldn’t be complete without a pit stop in the UK. We explore the Medicines for Human Use Regulations 1994, where parallel imports get their moment in the spotlight.
Buckle up, fellow Traders! Whether you’re sipping herbal tea or popping prescription pills, these regulations impact us all. So, let’s decode the fine print, raise our virtual glasses, and toast to safer, better affordable and accessible medicines for everyone.




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