PT Pharos and Albothyl Examination of Business Ethics in Indonesian Pharmaceutical Industry

The recent case of the withdrawal of Albothyl drugs by PT Pharos has become a public spotlight. In addition to raising concerns among consumers, this case also raises a number of questions related to ethical business practices. 

As a pharmaceutical company, PT Pharos has a great responsibility towards the health and safety of consumers. Therefore, it is important for us to analyze this case from a business ethics perspective.

PT Pharos, one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in Indonesia, faced criticism regarding the marketing of the Albothyl product. Albothyl is a drug known for treating infections and other conditions. The problem arose when a number of consumers claimed that the information provided about the product was inaccurate, and there were allegations that the effectiveness of the product did not match the claims marketed.

BPOM on Thursday (2/15/2018) appealed to the public to stop using Albothyl products distributed by PT Pharos Indonesia. They also instructed PT Pharos to withdraw the product from the market. Albothyl's distribution permit was temporarily suspended until BPOM approved the submitted indications. 

Thus, the use of Albothyl as a hemostatic and antiseptic in surgery, as well as on the skin, ears, nose, throat, canker sores, and teeth is prohibited. This decision was made after BPOM received 38 reports from health workers regarding side effects from using Albothyl

Chronology of Events

1. Product Marketing:

Albothyl was marketed with claims that the drug was effective in treating infections and had various other health benefits. Marketing was carried out through various channels, including social media and advertising.

2. Consumer Complaints:

After the product was on the market, a number of consumers began to report that they did not experience any improvement after using Albothyl, and in some cases, their health conditions worsened.

3. Research and Supervision:

Several institutions, including health authorities, began to investigate the effectiveness and safety of the product. Initial findings indicated that claims made by PT Pharos about Albothyl may not be supported by strong scientific evidence.

4. Public Reaction:

The case sparked outrage among consumers and attracted media attention. News of the complaints and investigations spread widely, raising controversy over marketing ethics and corporate responsibility.

In response, PT Pharos issued a statement to defend their claims and assert that Albothyl had gone through the testing process and obtained a distribution permit. However, criticism of the lack of transparency and strong scientific evidence continues.

Negative reactions from the public and media have led to a decline in trust in the Pharos brand. This has had an impact on product sales and the company's reputation in the pharmaceutical industry.

This case reflects the ethical challenges in the pharmaceutical industry, especially related to:
- Regulatory compliance, Ensuring that all product claims are supported by valid research.
- Transparency in marketing, Consumers have the right to clear and accurate information about the products they consume.
- Corporate social responsibility, Companies must consider the impact of their products on public health.

The cases of PT Pharos and Albothyl are a reminder of the importance of business ethics in the pharmaceutical industry. By prioritizing transparency, social responsibility, and regulatory compliance, companies can build trust with consumers and contribute to the development of a healthier industry. Collaborative efforts between companies, governments, and communities are essential to creating a more ethical and responsible environment in the marketing of health products.