In response to the project critisizing ads for prescriptions

I agree that there are over diagnosed illnesses as a result of pharmaceutical marketing campaigns. The most noted would probably be ADHD. However, there are drugs that have benefited the public through advertising. One example would be the Gardsil vaccine. This vaccine, passed by the FDA a little over a year ago protects women (and soon men) from three types of HPV. HPV causes infertility in women and in men can lead to an equal amount of oral and throat cancers as smoking. Another drug that is beneficial is the morning after pill.

Some advertisements may turn some American's into hypochondriacs and cause them to seek assistance from their medical professionals. Others, may spread awareness and protect against potential dangers (preventative medications like Gardisil). If people have such a low concept of themselves and their stability bolstered through anti-depression/ anti-anxiety ads then it may be best that they seek profession help in the form of cognitive therapy.

People that do not take any medicines (Christian Scientists) have been known to die when they get treatable diseases. I hope that this is not the trend. I do not wish to sound bitter but if it is the new way we are dealing with the inundation of pharmaceutical advertisements at least we can cut down on pollution and a swelling population.

I also think pharmaceutical companies are vilified all to frequently. Don't people dislike them because of the costs of their medicine? This is because of intellectual property...within 10 years or so they stop making money because the patent expires and generic companies bid. They they need a new break through. Soon enough they will all be owned by the government.

I am a daughter of a pharmaceutical man...forgive my defense. My dad only went to the FDA to get drugs passed. Since I find him to be honorable I have trouble finding his profession incredibly dishonorable.