Direct-to-consumer Advertising

Direct-to-consumer advertising (DTC advertising) usually refers to the marketing of pharmaceutical products but can apply in other areas as well. This form of advertising is directed toward patients, rather than healthcare professionals. The Food and Drug Administration holds responsibility of regulating DTC advertising. The FDA’s latest version of guidelines, though still in draft form, for pharmaceutical drug advertising was updated in 2009. Forms of DTC advertising include TV, print, radio and other mass and social media. There are ethical and regulatory concerns regarding DTC advertising, specifically the extent to which these ads may unduly influence the prescribing of the prescription medicines based on consumer demands when, in some cases, they may not be medically necessary.

Read more about Direct-to-consumer Advertising:  Nations Permitting DTC, DTC and Threats To National Sovereignty, Pharmaceutical Industry Controversy, Financial Services, Digital and The Evolution of Direct-to-consumer Advertising

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