As you probably know, last month the FDA held a public hearing on the promotion of prescription drugs (and other FDA-regulated medical products) using the Internet and social media tools. A variety of interested parties weighed in, from patients and caregivers to HCPs to Internet vendors, ad agencies, and, of course, pharma companies. There were suggestions for different regulatory approaches, thoughts on how technology can be used to spread information, and discussions about who is responsible for what. Through it all, one theme kept popping up: Through responsible engagement, pharma companies may be able to address and even correct misinformation about their products online—which could actually help patients and physicians make informed health decisions.
With every passing day, it becomes increasingly clear that social media play a very important role in public health and health literacy. I’ve heard from several pharma players who want to advocate for flexibility in the regulatory approach so they can participate in the online conversation and provide accurate and credible product information in real time.
Is your company planning—or already pursuing—a social media presence? What are your views on how pharma can responsibly engage in this arena? Send me an e-mail at awestmeyer@rmarketing.com or click on the Comments link below to share your thoughts.
With every passing day, it becomes increasingly clear that social media play a very important role in public health and health literacy. I’ve heard from several pharma players who want to advocate for flexibility in the regulatory approach so they can participate in the online conversation and provide accurate and credible product information in real time.
Is your company planning—or already pursuing—a social media presence? What are your views on how pharma can responsibly engage in this arena? Send me an e-mail at awestmeyer@rmarketing.com or click on the Comments link below to share your thoughts.
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