Many consumers of prescription drugs do not have the knowledge to decide between treatment methods for any conditions they may have, and therefore are too easily influenced by Direct-to-Consumer prescription drug advertisements. While laws are in place to regulate what companies are able to advertise, there are no specific laws regarding informing consumers about the specific disease or disorder the drug will alleviate. And many times, the risks associated with the drug vastly outweigh any benefits it may have. In addition, the promotion of specific drugs have helped drive up the cost of medical care, because most of the drugs that are advertised are more expensive than an equally effective alternative.
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