Dispensed Pty Ltd has received a hefty fine of $118,800 from the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) due to unlawful advertising related to prescription-only medicinal cannabis. The company faced six infringement notices for promoting its products on social media and various third-party websites, including subtle references to its offerings. Such actions contravene the Therapeutic Goods Act 1989, which prohibits advertising prescription medicines directly to the public.
While medicinal cannabis has been legal in Australia since March 2017, strict advertising regulations are in place to ensure responsible promotion. The TGA highlighted that inappropriate advertising could lead to undue demand for these medicines and disrupt the vital relationship between patients and their healthcare providers. They emphasised that treatment options should be determined by health professionals in collaboration with their patients.
In addition to the fine, Dispensed Pty Ltd has received a direct notice mandating that they cease all advertisements for medicinal cannabis across their own platforms and third-party sites. They are also required to retrieve any existing promotional materials that are still in circulation. The company has been contacted for further comments regarding this situation.