Drug industry

Examines the growth of awareness of mood stabilization and of bipolar disorders, as well as the sensationalistic attitudes towards both.

Attempts to demystify some of the assumptions at work in the "culture of marketing," toward the goal of explaining contemporary disease mongering.

Looks at both sides of the direct-to-consumer drug advertising debate.

Argues that drug companies' claims that high drug prices are necessary to fund research and development are unfounded, but that the money is spend on marketing of products of dubious benefit.

Discusses women and medications.

Reveals how widening the boundaries of illness and lowering the threshold for treatments is creating millions of new patients and billions in new profits.

Looks at the impact of SSRI use among Canadian women. Reviews what is currently known about the benefits and harms caused by SSRIs, as well as both the definition and incidence of depression in women.

Explores drug company funding of health and disease advocacy groups. Argues that it creates a conflict of interest that needs to be recognized and addressed.

Examines the health risks associated with Diane-35, a drug to treat severe acne, yet marketed as a bill control pill.

Targets a recent ad campaign, entitled "Julie's Story," sponsored by Hoffman-LaRoche, makers of Xenical. Describes the side-effects of this drug, and presents a mock ad, entitled "Barbara's Story."