Ban Direct-to-Consumer Advertising of Prescription Drugs: American Medical Association

Members of a major US medical association has called for a ban on advertising prescription drugs to consumers, saying the practice helps drive up prices and harms patient health.

The American Medical Association, which has more than 200,000 members, voted to urge an end to direct-to-consumer advertising of drugs and medical devices during a meeting in Atlanta, Georgia.

Rise in Trends of Prescription Drugs Usage Among Adults in the US
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins), antidepressants and high blood pressure medications saw especially notable jumps in usage among the Americans.

‘Prices of prescription drugs skyrocket due to direct-to-consumer advertising by pharmaceutical companies. It also inflates demand for new and more expensive drugs.’

Tweet it Now

"Today's vote in support of an advertising ban reflects concerns among physicians about the negative impact of commercially-driven promotions, and the role that marketing costs play in fueling escalating drug prices," said AMA Board Chair-elect Patrice Harris.

About $4.5 billion is spent promoting prescription drugs in the United States annually, and many health experts say soaring drug costs are making some treatments for cancer, hepatitis C and other illnesses out of reach for some of the nation's most vulnerable people.

Advertising dollars spent by drug makers have increased by 30 percent in the last two years, according to recently published market research.

One in Four Americans Admits Abusing Prescription Drugs, Says Survey
A new national survey by FindLaw.com finds one in four Americans admits that they have abused prescription drugs.

The practice is increasing demand for expensive treatments, even when there are cheaper alternatives available, the AMA said.

"Direct-to-consumer advertising also inflates demand for new and more expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be appropriate," Harris added.

Prescription Painkillers Source of Addiction for Most Women, Says Study
New study has found an increase in the number of opioid painkiller prescriptions in the last two decades in Canada.

Only the United States and New Zealand allow direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription drugs. In other nations, it is already banned.

"In a worst-case scenario, patients forego necessary treatments when drugs are too expensive," said Harris.

Risk of Birth Defect Double With Pregnant Women Taking Painkillers
Using doctor prescribed painkillers by women of child bearing age, face double the risk of serious birth defects in babies than their counterparts.

The AMA said it will also "encourage actions by federal regulators to limit anticompetitive behavior by pharmaceutical companies."

Prices of generic and brand-name prescription drugs have been climbing in the past several years, and rose 4.7 percent in 2015, according to the Altarum Institute Center for Sustainable Health Spending.

Source-AFP