Healthy Skepticism Library item: 4295

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: news

Drug advertisement and consumer
Drug Study Group 1991 Dec3

Abstract:

Thailand has a drug act which only allows over-the-counter drugs to be advertised directly to the public. However, many previously prescription only medications have been reclassified as over-the-counter and as a result are being heavily advertised. Companies use four different techniques: frequently presenting the name of the drug and its indications during prime time on radio and television; presenting drug promotion in the guise of education; taking advantage of loopholes in the Thai law; and using well-known personalities to promote products.

Keywords:
*analysis/Thailand/developing countries/direct-to-consumer advertising/DTCA/over-the-counter medications/endorsements/broadcast advertisements/quality of information/regulation of promotion/ATTITUDES REGARDING PROMOTION: CONSUMERS/PATIENTS/EVALUATION OF PROMOTION: DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER ADVERTISING/EVALUATION OF PROMOTION: PRINT AND BROADCASE ADVERTISEMENTS/PROMOTION AND HEALTH NEEDS: PROMOTION IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES/PROMOTION IN SPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC AREAS: OTC MEDICATIONS/PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES: ENDORSEMENTS/PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES: PUBLIC RELATIONS/REGULATION, CODES, GUIDELINES: DIRECT GOVERNMENT REGULATION