Healthy Skepticism Library item: 658

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

Reinstein JA.
OTC advertising: in whose interest? The manufacturer’s viewpoint
WHO Drug Information 1995; 9:(1):11-13

Abstract:

Advertising experts know that the most an advertisement for an over-the-counter advertisement can hope to communicate effectively is a recognition that a product exists and what it should be used for. More detailed information is contained in the product label or leaflet. Consumer advertising of medicines is ill-served by providing detailed comparisons of a product with competing products or with nondrug therapies. It is deameaning to consumers to suggest that an OTC medicine advertisement with attractive illustrations makes people go out and buy and use the medication without reading the label.

Keywords:
*analysis over-the-counter medications direct-to-consumer advertising industry perspective value of promotion labeling Consumers International World Health Organization WHO Ethical Criteria for Medicinal Drug Promotion World Federation of Proprietary Medicine Manufacturers consumer groups ATTITUDES REGARDING PROMOTION: INDUSTRY INFLUENCE OF PROMOTION: CONSUMERS AND PATIENTS PROMOTION IN SPECIFIC THERAPEUTIC AREAS: OTC MEDICATIONS PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES: DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER ADVERTISING REGULATION, CODES, GUIDELINES: INTERNATIONAL CODES