Healthy Skepticism Library item: 626

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

Gilbert D, Chetley A.
New trends in drug promotion
Consumer Policy Review 1996; 63:(5):162-167

Abstract:

As the National Health Service (NHS) moves towards evidence-based medicine and more rational prescribing, drug companies are seeking new ways to promote their products. They target the NHS by sponsoring conferences, publications and continuing education. Of equal concern is the promotion to consumers through patient groups, the Internet and other forms of patient information. This is defended as promoting consumer choice. But by redefining illness and “selling” the disease, they create new markets for themselves. A thorough review of self-regulation is required.

Keywords:
*analysis United Kingdom National Health Service NHS sponsored symposia & conferences Internet regulation of promotion general public and consumers patient groups patient education material Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry ABPI Code of Practice (UK) press conferences and releases conflict of interest quality of information EVALUATION OF PROMOTION: PATIENT HANDOUTS PROMOTION DISGUISED: CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS PROMOTION DISGUISED: PRESS CONFERENCES AND PRESS COVERAGE PROMOTIONAL TECHNIQUES: INTERNET ADVERTISING REGULATION, CODES, GUIDELINES: COMPLIANCE, SANCTIONS, STANDARDS REGULATION, CODES, GUIDELINES: INDUSTRY SELF-REGULATION SPONSORSHIP: PATIENT AND CONSUMER ORGANIZATIONS