Drug industry

Debates that researchers with close ties to drug companies are defining and classifying a new medical disorder at company sponsored meetings.

Originally aired on CBC's Marketplace, March 25, 2003. Discusses medical ghostwriting, where people with scientific backgrounds are paid to stay in the shadows and crank out favourable reports for drug companies. Reports that the drug companies then get doctors to put their names on the studies — for money, prestige, or perks.

Debates that women, in particular, are vulnerable to the changes being wrought in the name of globalization. Discusses the negative impact that the pharmaceutical industry has had on women's health.

Explains how the push to streamline the drug approval process in the world's three largest pharmaceutical markets is neglecting the special needs of women.

Examines the relation between direct to consumer advertising and patients' requests for prescriptions and the relation between patients' requests and prescribing decisions.

Examines the tactics of pharmaceutical companies, especially direct-to-consumer advertising.

Provides an overview of how Canada's program for reporting Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) supports-or doesn't support-an effective women's health strategy related to prescription drug use.

Discusses the drug approval process in Canada, post-approval drug surveillance, adverse drug reactions, and notification of those at risk of harm. Recommends measures to ensure drug safety for Canadian women and their families.

Provides a guide to obtaining reliable, independent and comparable information on medical products on the World Wide Web. Developed in consultation with drug regulatory authorities, drug information experts, consumer organizations and the pharmaceutical industry.

Reports on a panel discussion on the issue of women's health researchers, services, and action groups/organisations accepting funding from pharmaceutical companies.