Shared CPG must be generally available through independent distribution channels
AI-verifiedwarningFDA guidance · non-bindingCheckable — presence or a literal match settles it
Rule
A CPG included in an SIUU communication should be generally available through independent distribution channels such as internet sources, book retailers, subscriptions, or libraries.
Check
Confirm the CPG can be independently obtained outside the firm's own distribution. A violation is a CPG not otherwise generally available.
Where this comes from
Section V, Q4, item 2.a (CPGs) · page 25. The highlighted words are quoted exactly; a script confirms they appear in the source before the rule can be published.
… on rigorous reviews of the existing evidence conducted according to a clear, established procedure and following a transparent process that minimizes biases and conflicts of interest The CPG includes ratings of the recommendations to reflect the quality and strength of evidence that supports each recommendation The CPG is revised when important new evidence warrants modifications of current recommendations The CPG is generally available through independent distribution channels (e.g., internet sources, book retailers, subscriptions, libraries) where CPGs are sold or are accessible CPGs that misrepresent or overstate findings from a study or analysis in light of the limitations of such study or analysis would not fall within the enforcement policy outlined in this guidance. One helpful resource when considering whether a particular CPG is appropriate to be included in an SIUU communication is the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) standards for CPG “trustworthiness.” CPGs t…
- Document
- FDA guidance: Communications From Firms to Health Care Providers Regarding Scientific Information on Unapproved Uses of Approved/Cleared Medical Products: Questions and Answers (final)
- Version
- as retrieved — the publisher does not version this document; the fingerprint below identifies the exact file
- Retrieved
- 2026-09-21 from www.fda.gov
- Fingerprint
- a36a07e1efd950b7a2a8f6b3…
FDA guidance describes the agency's current thinking. It is not binding law, and this rule is a recommendation, not an obligation.