[Psychiatrists and the pharmaceutical industry]

Abstract

Relationships between psychiatrists and the pharmaceutical industry have increased in frequency and intensity, both on the individual level and particularly on the institutional level. They extend from necessary and desirable cooperation to questionable practices and to unacceptable misconduct. Especially the latter has provoked a lively discussion and has initiated recommendations as well as guidelines. Their aim is to safeguard the integrity of physicians as well as the industry and to avoid endangering the relationship between the physician and the patient. They will do this by establishing clear norms, unequivocal documentation, and disclosure of relevant relationships in order to build up more mutual trust including that of the public. Based on a detailed review of the literature, 27 recommendations are put forward for discussion. Psychiatric associations should develop explicit guidelines for the relationships between psychiatrists and the pharmaceutical industry.