Pro:DTC prescription drug ads inform patients about diseases/medical conditions and possible treatments. In a 2007 survey in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research displayed that 44% of patients said doctor to patient drug ads made them have a better understanding of medical ailments and symptoms. Moreover, doctor to patient drug ads gave those patients information about treatments and recovery. A survey in April 2013 of the The Food and Drug Administration revealed that 48% of doctors strongly support the idea od doctor to patient ads and believe it increases morale amongst the United States. Nevertheless, doctors feel as if the ads strengthens, educates, and increases the awareness of pharmaceutical drugs.
Con: Health care professionals may feel pressured by DTC prescription drug ads to prescribe drugs that may not be in the best interest of the patient. A survey that contained 94% of oncology nurse practitioners on article(Journal of Clinical Oncology) portayed a patient request in advertised drug. 74% of nurses revealed that they had their own patient request a improper drug and stunning 43% of nurses felt pressured or overpowered in convincing patients to buy these pharmaceutical drugs. Kurt C. Stange, PhD, also described consumer advertisement as overwhelming instead subtle and supportive to a patient.
I honestly feel like its wrong for nurses to suggest harmful DTC drugs to suffering patients and it doesnt help the fact that those long term effects have a huge impact on one’s overall health.
Would you suggest a improper/innapropiate drug if were a nurse?
How would feel if a patient overdosed on a drug that you suggested they request?