Therapeutic products

In Swiss health law, therapeutic products mainly include medicinal products and medical devices, although the regulatory regimes differ. Medicinal products generally require authorization before being placed on the Swiss market, with assessment of quality, safety, and efficacy, while manufacturing, distribution, advertising, and pharmacovigilance are also regulated. Swissmedic plays the central federal role, alongside cantonal enforcement in areas such as dispensing and professional supervision. The rules aim to protect patients while allowing access to effective treatments. Cross-border supply, clinical trials, imports, and off-label use raise additional compliance issues.