How does direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) affect prescribing? A survey in primary care environments with and without legal DTCA

摘要

BackgroundDirect-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) of prescription drugs has increased rapidly in the United States during the last decade, yet little is known about its effects on prescribing decisions in primary care. We compared prescribing decisions in a US setting with legal DTCA and a Canadian setting where DTCA of prescription drugs is illegal, but some cross-border exposure occurs.