GPhA Supports FDA Proposed Rule on E-labeling

In a statement released on Dec. 17, 2014, Generic Pharmaceutical Association (GPhA) President Ralph G. Neas expresses the organization’s support for FDA’s proposed rule to amend prescription drug labeling regulations to require electronic distribution of the prescribing information intended for healthcare professionals. Neas believes the proposed rule would reduce prescribing errors and decrease storage, shipping, and printing costs.

“The proposed rule takes steps to ensure that prescribing information, which is currently delivered to health professionals in paper format, is distributed electronically. This information could include critical details necessary for effective use of the product or timely updates to safety information,” says Neas in the statement. “…e-labeling gives prescribers and dispensers immediate access to the most current, FDA-approved drug prescribing information. This means that manufacturers can provide electronic updates to labels in weeks, rather than the months, or even years.”