Should The Advertising Of Prescription Medications Be Limited?

By Dr. Brian McDonough

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- There is a major battle going on in congress and the senate. Actually, I am sure there are quite a few battles going on, but the one that has potential to impact your health has to do with advertising by pharmaceutical companies.

You have probably noticed that in the past ten years there has been increased spending on the advertising of prescription medications. There are many who feel that the advertising contributes to higher drug costs, since many ads feature newer and pricier medicines. A significant number of legislators feel drug makers are trying to encourage Americans to buy the most expensive drugs. The debate is whether or not they should find ways to limit consumer advertising. One thing is clear: There is a great deal of money being spent on advertising. The pharmaceutical industry spent about $3.6 billion on direct-to-consumer advertising during the first half of last year, up from $3.2 billion in 2014.