AMA looks to stop drug advertising

The American Medical Association (AMA) is asking for a ban on all prescription drug advertisements, citing the rising costs of pharmaceuticals.

"Today's vote in support of an advertising ban reflects concerns among physicians about the negative impact of commercially-driven promotions, and the role that marketing costs play in fueling escalating drug prices," AMA Chair-Elect Patrice Harris said. "Direct-to-consumer advertising also inflates demand for new and more expensive drugs, even when these drugs may not be appropriate."

There is more than $4.5 billion spent every year on these types of company-to-consumer prescription drug advertising, which is an increase of 30 percent over the past two years, according to rough estimates from Kantar Media, a market research company.

Only two countries allow these types of prescription drug advertisements: New Zealand and the United States. The AMA is also requesting that drug prices and costs become more transparent, so consumers know exactly what they’re getting and how much the pharmacies are profiting. They are also calling for a campaign to promote the advocacy and reach out to consumers.