Healthy Skepticism Library item: 7920

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

Schultz PT, Hogan TT, Clark KE.
Assessment of the impact of direct to consumer advertising of prescription drugs on consumers and prescribers
ASHP Midyear Clinical Meeting 2000 Dec; 35:

Abstract:

Increased direct to consumer (DTC) advertising of prescription medications has had a profound impact on the practice of medicine. While DTC advertisements provide consumers with information surrounding treatment options, they are primarily aimed at selling a product. Advertising campaigns often promote the use of new and expensive brand name medications over older, less expensive and possibly safer drugs. This practice could potentially promote the inappropriate use of medications. Sales of prescription medications continue to rise and an increased demand for prescription medications poses an additional challenge to health care organizations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of DTC advertising on patients and prescribers within a university affiliated teaching hospital. This study consisted of a written survey of patients and prescribers. Descriptive data obtained through evaluation of 124 patient surveys and 28 prescriber surveys are provided. Results indicate that the majority of patients have been exposed to DTC prescription drug advertisements. Additionally, the ads appear to be promoting demand for prescription drug products. The majority of prescribers reported prescribing additional medications based on consumer demand. In some cases, the medication would not have been prescribed otherwise. The findings reinforce the importance of the pharmacist’s role in providing objective drug information and patient education to promote appropriate and cost effective medication use.