June 17, 2008
Drug Companies and Marketing Practices
The large pharmaceutical companies agreed to hold off any direct to consumer marketing of their drugs after coming under heavy fire from Congress and the FDA regarding the controversial marketing practice. The Congressmen behind the investigation, Michigan Democrats Bart Stupak and John Dingell had wanted a two year moratorium on such advertising. In the end, the drug companies agreed to something that allows them to continue their deceptive marketing practices.
The companies still can pitch their products directly to consumers. They'll still use hired guns, actors, and celebrities who have no relation to the efficacy of the drug whatsoever. Finally, they didn't agree to advertise products only when studies have shown they improve clinical outcomes. Drugs are often approved (and advertised) solely based on surrogate markers.
In the end, this isn't good news for consumers and patients who rely on science rather than marketing practices to ensure their own health and welfare.
Trackback
You can ping this entry by using http://www.saundersblog.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-tb.cgi/639 .