An article in todays Women’s eNews starts out with the statement: “Women are frequent targets of direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical ads, which have helped fuel a boom in drug sales over the past decade. Critics say their gender focus is often misleading and can pose a hazard to women’s health.”
As a health care provider, I’ve always been concerned about these ads. I cannot tell you how many men and women have come into the office asking for something they have seen on TV. Because I don’t watch TV, I have to figure out what the “gotta go pill” is and then explain why it is or (far more often) is not a good idea for that person. And then in most cases, these pills are not covered on this persons insurance plan or it is covered…but on the highest tier – usually 50% of the cost.
Interestingly, these direct-to-consumer ads are banned in ALL countries of the world except New Zealand and the US.
I’m all for consumer education and for consumers taking charge of their health care. It’s just not as easy and advertising a “purple” pill.
What do you really think of these ads? Feel free to leave your comment.
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