Healthy Skepticism Library item: 2478

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

Coolidge MP.
Drug samples: friend or foe?
J Drugs Dermatol 2002 Jul; 1:(1):49-52
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12847754

Abstract:

The common practice of drug manufacturers in providing ‘free’ samples to physicians has influenced the business of medicine in several ways. This article analyzes some of the pros and cons of drug sampling, including from professional, societal, economical, legal, and practical perspectives, and provides suggestions on how to dispense with some of the problems inherent in the current system.

Keywords:
Advertising/economics Advertising/methods* Complementary Therapies Drug Costs Drug Industry/economics* Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations Pharmaceutical Preparations* Physician's Practice Patterns* United States *analysis United States drug samples economics EVALUATION OF PROMOTION: SAMPLES INFLUENCE OF PROMOTION: PRESCRIBING, DRUG USE PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES: SAMPLES