Harvard University has tightened its regulations for doctors and scientists who consult for drug companies and medical device makers.

Ties between prominent doctors and drug companies have been scrutinised lately, especially by Senator Chuck Grassley, an Iowa Republican.

About two dozen of Harvard’s highest flyers, those who sit on the boards of drug companies, are most affected. Under the rules, introduced on 1 January, they can earn no more than $5000 (£3100; 3440) per 10 hour day for service on the board of a drug or device company and may not accept company stock in payment.

The rules also apply to about 6000 doctors, researchers, institutional officers, and other employees at Partners HealthCare, a Harvard affiliated healthcare group.

Read article at http://www.bmj.com/cgi/content/extract/340/jan12_2/c172