Direct-to-consumer advertising

Describes the distinction between advertising to promote the sale of a drug and activities that are not primarily intended to promote the sale of a drug (e.g., education, scientific exchange). These are the regulations that prohibit Direct-to-Consumer Advertising (DTCA) of prescription drugs.

Discusses and debunks the idea promoted by drug companies that direct-to-consumer advertising of prescription drugs has health benefits for patients. Discusses the risks for patients being prescribed unnecessary drugs, and the astronomical costs that legalizing DTCA in Canada could entail.

Powerpoint presentation on some of the work of Women and Health Protection, including research into the effects of Direct-to-Consumer Advertising (DTCA) of prescrption drugs, the CanWest Charter Challenge, a public forum on silicone gel breast implants, and women and statins.

Delves into the world of prescription drugs in Canada, and considers the impact on the health of women. From the inadequate testing of many drugs on women in clinical trials, to the sometimes questionable portrayal of women in illegal prescription drug advertising, Canadian drug policy has not always paid attention to how women and men are affected differently. 297pp, Paperback

This letter to Health Canada argues that the pharmaceutical manufacturer, Pfizer, has been running television ads with misleading information on cardiovascular risks and using Canadian's fear of death from heart disease in order to promote sales of its product.  It urges Health Canada to take regulatory action on this campaign.

This letter raises concerns about the risks to public health of an advertisement for a prescription drug, Celebrex (celecoxib), that aired on Canadian television. The letter asks Minister Tony Clement to take immediate regulatory action to stop this advertising campaign and to impose sanctions on the sponsor, Pfizer, to prevent future violations.

Examines the ongoing story of Depo Provera, including: its regulatory history; how it has been and continues to be used, and; what is known about its safety profile.

An update on the Charter challenge on direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising (DTCA) in Canada from a public interest coalition of groups granted intervener status.

Critique of Health Canada's “Blueprint for Renewal: Transforming Canada 's Approach to Regulating Health Products and Food.” Discusses direct-to-consumer advertising and the harms to women.

Discusses the Charter Challenge case of CanWest Mediaworks against the federal government on the issue of direct-to-consumer advertising  (DTCA). Reviews what the different parties are saying, and shows expert testimony on the specific harm to women of DTCA.