Internet Drug Ads Misleading

by Frank Jovine on 04/07/2009 in Consumer Tips, Internet

No warning signs for two drug ads get the Food and Drug Administration attention in a big way.

The Food and Drug Administration issued warnings to the makers of Plavix and Tysabri, saying their pop-up ads lack required safety information.

Tysabri, from Biogen Idec, is used against multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s Disease, but was briefly recalled in 2004 after it was linked to a deadly brain infection, then allowed back onto the market with the warnings.

Plavix, the blood thinner from Sanofi-Aventis, has been available since 1997 but is known to increase the risk of dangerous internal bleeding. Despite this it’s one of the top-selling drugs on the market.

In both cases the FDA said the lack of warnings made the drugs appear safer than they really are. Both companies have until Thursday to describe what they intend to do.

Always make sure you read the label and warning signs when taking any prescription drug. It’s a good feeling that the FDA is getting back to regulating internet ads for food and drugs.