Healthy Skepticism Library item: 1236

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

Burgmer M, Driesch G, Heuft G.
[The "Sisi syndrome": a new form of depression?]
Nervenarzt 2003 May; 74:(5):440-4

Abstract:

A new depressive entity called the “Sisi syndrome,” named in reference to the former empress of Austria, was introduced by a drug company in 1998. Their advertising campaign presents information about nosology, symptoms, and recommended therapy. We review the relevant literature about this syndrome and are not able to confirm the statements about it. The lack of scientific proof of it as an independent entity of depression stands in contrast to the widespread media coverage in Germany, which was organized by a public relations company. Therefore, we discuss new kinds of marketing strategies (“disease mongering”) by drug companies and conclude with some preventive recommendations.

Keywords:
Advertising* Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation/therapeutic use* Depressive Disorder/classification Depressive Disorder/diagnosis* Depressive Disorder/drug therapy Drug Industry* English Abstract Germany Humans Marketing* Paroxetine/therapeutic use* Syndrome