AMA On Drug Advertising
Thursday June 15, 2006
The AMA announced a new policy on direct to consumer advertising prescription drugs and medial devices. The policy suggests that advertising for newly approved drugs be postponed and that drug companies follow certain guidelines when preparing to advertise.
In the news release they felt that delaying any advertising on newly approved drugs would help give physicians time to become better acquainted with the drugs and their actions and possible side effects. Physicians are very busy and may not have time to determine if a new medication is the best treatment option. Many patients are influenced to ask physicians for specific medications that are advertised on TV or in magazines.
The AMA also calls for advertising to be clearer and equally show the pros and cons of the medication.