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Switching in Europe

Having a uniform switching policy from prescription to over-the-counter (OTC) drugs across Europe is a difficult task which is largely due to the previous national evaluations and, to a certain extent, reimbursement policies and cultural differences. The impact of the European Classification Directive 92/26/EC has initiated a process of harmonization which, at least for newer products in the OTC area, is helpful in getting nonprescription status all over Europe. The European switching guideline is also expected to provide a general indication of what the consultation process should comprise and make the general process more transparent. It is hoped that the cooperation created among the European Member States will also lead to a more liberal policy with regard to issues such as trade names, distribution, and pricing. Together with the intensified dialogue with health professionals this should contribute to an increase of the OTC market in Europe, which would be in line with recommendations by health politicians.