Chapter V: Ethics

Pharmacists carry out their duties with respect for human life and the individual. They must contribute to informing and educating the public about health and social matters. In particular, they contribute to the fight against drug addiction, sexually transmitted diseases and doping.

Pharmacists must take care to preserve their freedom of professional judgement in the performance of their duties. They may not alienate their independence in any form whatsoever. They must behave in all circumstances in a manner consistent with the probity and dignity of the profession. They must refrain from any act or demonstration likely to bring the profession into disrepute, even outside the practice of the profession. The pharmacist must…

A pharmacist may only engage in another activity if this is not excluded by the regulations in force and if it is compatible with professional dignity and the obligation to practise personally.

All pharmacists are bound by professional secrecy under the conditions laid down by law. All pharmacists must also ensure that their staff are informed of their obligations in terms of professional secrecy and that they comply with them.

Pharmacists must show the same dedication to everyone who uses their services.

All pharmacists, whatever their position and within the limits of their knowledge and resources, must come to the aid of any person in immediate danger, except in cases of force majeure.

Pharmacists are required to assist in actions taken by the competent authorities to protect health.

In the public interest, pharmacists must take care not to compromise the proper functioning of social protection institutions and schemes. In the course of his professional activity, he shall comply with the rules governing these institutions and schemes.

Pharmacists must take care never to encourage, either by their advice or by their actions, practices contrary to the preservation of public health. They must contribute to the fight against charlatanism, in particular by refraining from manufacturing, distributing or selling any objects or products of this nature.