Unlike the United States and New Zealand, it’s illegal Direct to the general public promoting of prescribed drugs in Australia.
The foremost idea is to avoid asking for a drug that might not be appropriate, but which doctors may feel pressured to prescribe.
But drug corporations can get across the ban by running “awareness” ads that obliquely promote their products.
For example, we’re currently viewing advertisements Raising awareness about weight loss It doesn’t mention the names of specific Ozympic-style drugs. Instead, these ads advise you to consult with your doctor about your weight.
The foremost rationale behind such awareness ads is that they encourage people to hunt help from their doctor, somewhat than suffer from symptoms they might be embarrassed about, or unable to take care of on their very own.
For example, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly—which make weight reduction drugs— told ABC recently Their campaigns sought to boost awareness of obesity as a chronic disease.
The primary counterargument is that awareness ads act as drug promotion in disguise.
So, should pharmaceutical corporations be allowed to run awareness ads about diseases or their drug treatments?
We asked five experts. Four out of 5 said no. Here are their detailed answers.