“Doctor’s samples” are small quantities of medicines supplied free of charge by pharmaceutical companies to doctors for clinical evaluation or to let patients try. In Hong Kong, the distribution and possession of doctor’s samples are also strictly regulated. First, all doctor’s samples must themselves be pharmaceutical products registered in Hong Kong (with an HK-XXXXX number). Secondly, the packaging and labelling must clearly state “Doctor’s Sample”, “Free Sample” or “Not for Sale” to prevent improper sale. When distributing doctor’s samples, a pharmaceutical company (as a wholesale dealer licence holder) must keep detailed records, including the name and clinic address of the doctor receiving the samples, the sample name, quantity and batch number. These records must also be kept for at least two years. Doctors receiving and storing these samples should ensure that they are kept safe and properly stored, just as they would for ordinary medicines. They may provide them only to their own patients free of charge and must never sell them.
HONG KONG DRUG LICENSING
How does Hong Kong’s pharmaceutical licensing system treat “physician samples”?
A complete explanation of the regulatory basis, Drew Tang’s recommendations and risk alerts. The original material dates from 2025; read it alongside the latest official requirements.
Original guide, 2025 edition: These FAQs are provided for topic-based reference and have not all been individually checked against current rules. Please confirm fees, personnel, renewal, changes and product requirements against the professional in-depth guide for the relevant licence type and the official requirements in force at the time.
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