Should the United States allow the direct marketing of medications in print and on television? Support your response. How do you feel direct marketing affects the cost of prescription medications?

These sites will help you form YOUR opinion about this topic.

http://www.google.com/#sclient=psy&hl=en&q=direct+marketing+of+medications+in+print+and+on+television&aq=1&aqi=g2&aql=&oq=&gs_rfai=&pbx=1&fp=7b989c6c17f79c85

This is an opinion question. What do YOU THINK about marketing medications (which is already going on, by the way)?

Re-post with what YOU THINK and WHY and someone here will be happy to read your write-up and comment.

To form an informed opinion on whether the United States should allow the direct marketing of medications in print and on television, you can consider various factors and viewpoints. Here's an approach to finding an answer:

1. Research the arguments for and against direct marketing of medications: Start by examining the different perspectives on this issue. Look for expert opinions, studies, and articles that discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of allowing direct marketing of medications. Consider arguments related to patient empowerment, increasing awareness about available treatment options, potential misinformation, and the impact on healthcare costs.

2. Analyze the impact on patient awareness: Direct marketing of medications can potentially make patients more aware of treatment options available to them. Evaluate how this might benefit patients by providing them with crucial information about new medications, innovative therapies, or more suitable alternatives for their conditions. Additionally, consider the potential risks of patients being influenced by exaggerated claims or selecting medications that are not necessarily in their best interest.

3. Evaluate the impact on healthcare costs: Investigate how direct marketing affects the cost of prescription medications. Examine the relationship between marketing expenses pharmaceutical companies incur and how it may contribute to higher drug prices. Consider arguments suggesting that marketing costs can be a significant component of a drug's overall price, and weigh them against counterarguments that marketing increases competition and drives down prices.

4. Consider international perspectives: Explore how other countries regulate pharmaceutical marketing. Assess the policies and experiences of countries where direct marketing is allowed, such as New Zealand or the United States where it is currently permitted. Evaluate how these policies influence patient behavior, healthcare costs, and overall public health.

5. Formulate well-grounded arguments: Based on your research, build a case for or against direct marketing of medications in print and on television. Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks, patient autonomy, healthcare costs, and the experiences of other countries. Incorporate evidence and expert opinions to support your stance.

Remember, understanding and considering multiple perspectives will help you form a well-rounded view on this complex issue and enable you to provide reasoned support for your response.