In a notice published in the Federal Register on February 18, 2014, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) asked for feedback on a proposed research study related to prescription drug television advertisements. The study, Disclosure Regarding Additional Risks in Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) Prescription Drug Television (TV) Advertisements (Ads), would investigate the impact of limiting the risks presented in DTC prescription drug TV ads to those that are serious and actionable. The ads would also include a disclosure statement to alert consumers that there are other product risks not included in the ad.

Current FDA regulations (21 CFR § 202.1) require that TV and radio ads present a product's major risks in audio, or audio and visual parts of the ads ("major statements"). FDA is concerned that these major statements are too long, resulting in reduced consumer comprehension, minimization of important risk information, and potentially, therapeutic noncompliance due to fear of side effects. At the same time, and in conflict with the above, FDA is concerned that DTC TV ads do not include adequate risk information. FDA believes that providing limited risk information in ads will promote improved consumer perception and understanding of serious and actionable drug risks.  Comments to the study should be submitted in writing, or electronically at www.regulations.gov, by April 21, 2014.

This article is presented for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.