Healthy Skepticism Library item: 17235
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
Physicians Say No to DTC Advertising for Medications that Treat Mental Disorders
Media Curves 2010 Feb 17
http://www.mediacurves.com/HealthCare/J7745-DiagnosingMentalHealth/
Full text:
A new media study among 612 physicians revealed that the majority of physicians (60%) indicated that drug companies should not be allowed to advertise medications that treat mental illnesses on television.
The study was conducted during February 16-17 by HCD Research using its MediaCurves.com® website, to obtain viewers’ perceptions of physicians regarding mental health care. To view detailed results go to: www.mediacurves.com.
After reading a summary of the proposed changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the majority of physicians (54%) reported that the proposed changes would have a positive impact on the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. In addition, the majority of physicians (56%) reported that they do not think mental disorders are over-diagnosed in the United States.
Among the findings:
Do you think drug companies should be able to advertise for medications that treat mental illnesses (such as depression, anxiety, etc.) on television?
Total
Yes
40%
No
60%
After reading these proposed changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), do you think these changes will impact the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness?
Total
Yes, Positive Impact
54%
Yes, Negative Impact
16%
No, No impact
31%
Do you feel that, overall, mental disorders are over-diagnosed in the United States?
Total
Yes
44%
No
56%
