Healthy Skepticism Library item: 1178

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

Viale PH.
What nurse practitioners should know about direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription medications.
J Am Acad Nurse Pract 2003 Jul; 15:(7):297-304

Abstract:

PURPOSE: To describe the marketing strategies of direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising and the risks, benefits, and potential influence on the prescribing practices of nurse practitioners (NPs). DATA SOURCES: Journal articles, media sources, and clinical experience. CONCLUSIONS: The effect of DTC advertising of prescription medications on NPs has not been well studied. Although there are studies that examine the effects of DTC advertising on physician prescribing as well as the effects of this practice on the consumer, opinions on the benefits of DTC advertising are varied. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: NPs need to recognize the potential influence of DTC advertising and to be prepared to guide patients toward appropriate medication choices by participating in a partnership with patients. Health care providers, including NPs, need to work with the pharmaceutical industry to encourage accountability of DTC advertising, thus improving dissemination of correct information and promoting positive outcomes for health consumers and patients.

Keywords:
Advertising Drug Industry/standards Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice* Humans Marketing of Health Services/standards Mass Media Nurse Practitioners/standards* Nurse's Role* Nurse-Patient Relations* Patient Education/methods Prescriptions, Drug* United States