[e-drug] please be a little moderate....(5)

["Chris W. Green" <chrisg@rad.net.id>]

E-DRUG: please be a little moderate....(5)
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Dear E-druggers,

There is no doubt that Dr. Edgren makes some very valid points. I think we 
are all aware that many doctors do manage to avoid the temptations of a 
'free lunch'. But the fact that it is still standard practice for the 
pharmaceutical companies to offer such incentives suggests that, at least 
in many parts of the world, this is still an effective strategy.

But I think the current concern is more directly focused on other 
questionable practices of these companies. All drugs are toxic to a 
greater or lesser extent, and I'm sure all doctors and pharmacists explain 
the potential side effects to their patients (or at least I hope I'm sure, 
although I'm not sure I'm sure!). 

But it seems to me we are now seeing an increasing number of cases in which the pharmaceutical companies are aware of serious toxicities, but fail to warn the medical profession of this, let alone the community.

I accept that regulation is necessary and this requires government action. 

But patients, if empowered, can also play a role. We have noted, not 
altogether happily, the effect that direct to consumer (DTC) advertising 
has had on drug sales. Could this not be counterbalanced by DTC 
advertising of the shortcomings of the drugs? No doubt there will be a 
zillion reasons why this won't work. But don't let's use the old saw that 
consumers won't understand. The empowerment of people with AIDS with 
treatment literacy has proved that. Yes, I know informed patients are a 
pain in the neck to doctors. But studies have proved they live longer!

Let's hope that patients prescribed Nimed are informed that it had been 
banned, the reasons for its banning, and the reasons why this ban has been 
rescinded.

Chris

Chris W. Green (chrisg@rad.net.id)
Treatment Educator, Spiritia Foundation
Jakarta, Indonesia
Tel: +62 (21) 7279 7007  Fax: +62 (21) 726-9521