Direct-to-Consumer Advertising

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising, as the name evokes, is a mode of advertising directly to consumers and is usually practiced by pharmaceuticals. The promotion of drugs, medical devices, or any other pharmaceutical products exemplifies this form of advertising. DTC advertising is a relatively new approach to promoting the sale of prescribed drugs. It is a direct promotion to patients or the general public, bypassing health care practitioners and professionals. DTC advertising is frequently managed through mass media, such as TV, magazines, newspapers, radio, and social media. However, DTC advertising must follow the guidelines established by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which were updated in 2009. The FDA is charged with ensuring that the advertising of prescription drugs follows the regulations.

At one time, DTC advertising was ...