Comments on: Why do some drug advertisments not include the function of the drug whils others do?

Question: Why do some drug advertisments not include the function of the drug whils others do?

stonerose — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:41:29 -0800

In the U.S., some televised prescription drug ads tell you exactly what the drug is for. Others only allude cryptically to the drug's function. Still others just show a middle-aged, sweater-clad couple enjoying a sunset on a beach. Or Mike Ditka. Why?

By: XQUZYPHYR

XQUZYPHYR — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:43:39 -0800

This seems like more of a philosophical question rather than a technical one... besides, isn't the answer obvious? What should the ad say? "Hey, limpdick! Buy this! It MAKES YOUR PEEPEE HARD!"

By: andrew cooke

andrew cooke — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:45:23 -0800

because it's selling to people who get upset about seeing a breast (with nipple covered) during superbowl.

By: punishinglemur

punishinglemur — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:47:01 -0800

If the ad states the drug's benefits, it must also state side effects. If the ad just tells you to visit a website, or alludes cryptically to the drug's function, then no side effects listing is necessary.

By: beth

beth — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:47:01 -0800

I think it's rather clear at this point that the nipple in question was not, in fact, covered. It had a barbell through it and a sunburst nipple shield thingie around it.

By: punishinglemur

punishinglemur — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:48:06 -0800

...so, they'll only tell you the drug's function/benefits if they're comfortable telling you that it may cause baldness, impotence, genital rash, and diarrhea, possibly at the same time.

By: andrew cooke

andrew cooke — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:52:27 -0800

sorry. change that to "they're selling to people who think the exact details of the nipple cover during the superbowl are important".

By: jessamyn

jessamyn — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:55:15 -0800

more from the FDA about TV or "direct to consumer" advertising [which is illegal in Canada] an article that ends with this chestnut

"A drug company won't play fast and loose with the rules because its most important asset is its reputation with the American people."

By: keswick

keswick — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 17:56:08 -0800

'cos Ditka is God?
da bears da bears da bears da bears

By: pmurray63

pmurray63 — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 19:25:44 -0800

What punishinglemur said. This December Slate article about the Levitra foolball-through-the-tire ad provides some relevant info ... plus a straight-faced denial from a spokesman that the imagery is suggestive.

By: NortonDC

NortonDC — Mon, 16 Feb 2004 19:59:34 -0800

The god I believe in isn't short of cash, mister.