22/11/2007 (Agence Europe) - In a communication published on Thursday 22 November, the Pharmaceutical Group of the European Union (PGEU) has voiced its concerns over the potential negative consequences of the direct distribution of medicines by laboratories to dispensing pharmacies. A direct distribution system has been piloted by Pfizer in the United Kingdom since March 2007. If approved by the British competition authority, this system may be emulated throughout Europe, according to the PGEU, which is concerned for the future of the intermediaries who traditionally supply pharmacies with the full range of products. The Group believes that an effective fight against counterfeit products is possible without endangering wholesale medical suppliers. (O.J.)