Acting as a pseudo-regulatory body, PAAB offers review and pre-clearance services recognized by Health Canada to pharmaceutical companies and marketing agencies who wish to advertise directly to consumers and/or healthcare professionals.

It works collaboratively with Health Canada, with the federal agency represented as an ex-oficio member on PAAB's board of directors.

As of July 1977, all advertisements printed in the Canadian Medical Association Journal carried the PAAB seal of approval following an examination of their quality and accuracy.

[4] Advertising materials for all health products in Canada that are intended for healthcare professionals are submitted for review and pre-clearance by PAAB, who prescribes the guidelines for direct marketing to this group.

[6] Educational materials and other messaging directed towards consumers on prescription drugs and the medical conditions they treat are reviewed by PAAB and Advertising Standards Canada to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.