Directive 2005/29/EC (as amended by Directive 2024/825/EU) is a lex generalis and serves as a “safety net” to protect consumers from any misleading commercial practices. It also applies in principle to over-the-counter medicines that are products purchased by consumers for personal use. Obviously, the Directive will complement the specific regulations related to the marketing of medicines that will prevail (as lex specialis) in case of conflict. Examples of deceptive trade practices may be the use of evocative and vague terms such as “eco,” “bio,” “natural,” and “green” on packaging or in product names.
Last modified on 10/01/2025