The Chicago Tribune reports on comments by Dr. Janet Woodcock, FDA acting deputy commissioner for operations. She called direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising a double-edged sword. "Doctors say it improves communication with patients," she said. "But in some cases, there may be increased awareness of drugs while people don't have a full understanding of the risks."
The Tribune reports that Woodcock said there needs to be "more of a balance" between the promotion of the drug and side effects mentioned.
"In some cases that does happen," she said of unnecessary prescribing. "There's no doubt about it." The disclaimers about side effects "aren't sinking into people's consciousness," Woodcock added.