Drug Ads: How Much Do They Really Tell You?

We've all seen the pharmaceutical ads on TV that leave you wondering what's being advertised. A family of animated tinker-toys pushes a drug that resolves bladder control issues, a family out for a sail somehow advertises psoriasis medications. These ads are confusing at best and – as the FDA warns – potentially misleading.

By law, pharmaceutical TV advertisements must present a fair balance of the benefits and side effects of the drugs they are selling. But a newly proposed FDA rule calls into question whether drug companies are actually doing that. Yes, these commercials list potential side effects, some as serious as death, but they do so while showing the visual equivalent of puppy dogs and fairies on screen. The new FDA rule proposes banning pharmaceutical companies from including distracting on-screen images when potential drug side effects are being listed. The rationale behind this rule is that consumers are distracted by happy images, and therefore they don't absorb the true extent of the potentially damaging side effects that are associated with the drugs being advertised. The FDA's theories are currently being tested and public comments are being heard pending a final ruling.

If you have been injured by a dangerous drug, regardless of whether the drug manufacturer released warnings about side effects, you may be entitled to compensation. A dangerous drug attorney at Arnold & Itkin may be able to help. Our firm has recovered tens of millions of dollars for victims of defective or dangerous drugs, and we may be able to help you as well. A consultation with one of our attorneys is free and confidential, with no obligation to proceed further. We understand the emotions involved in a drug injury case, and we want to advocate for you and your family. Contact a dangerous drug lawyer from Arnold & Itkin today to find out more about your rights.