Healthy Skepticism Library item: 11477

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Vitry A, Mintzes B, Lexchin J
Direct-to-consumer advertising policy in Australia: realism in whose interests?
Internal Medicine Journal 2007 Sep; 37:(9):665–666
http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1445-5994.2007.01447.x

Abstract:

We agree with Mackenzie et al. that a broader approach is warranted to control the expansion of direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) of prescription medicines.1 However, we disagree with their argument that the current legislative ban on DTCA is not part of an appropriate response as it has failed to control the rampant growth of this type of promotion.

The ban on DTCA is linked to a ban on direct sales of prescription medicines. It is a health protection measure to prevent unsafe and unnecessary medication use, and the reasons for this ban are still valid today…