Friday, May 20, 2011

Does Anyone Get Drug Ads?

I cannot ever remember purchasing anything because of a TV ad. I admit that there may be something at work subliminally. But I raise this issue because I watch with amusement the drug ads. It seems to me that in a 30-second ad, they spend 25 seconds warning of the side effects and dangers of taking this particular drug. I cannot see how this could lead anyone to want to use it.

I mean, really, if you go to the doctor and need a medication, don't you pretty much depend on him / her to tell you what to take? I don't think it would even enter my mind to say, "Wait a minute, Doc. Instead of what you are prescribing, how about let me try ___________. I saw this TV ad about it, and think it's the drug for me."

Maybe someone can explain the marketing strategy. I would much rather see these companies save those millions they spend on TV ads -- and lower their prices!
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From Rabbi Abraham Heschel, as quoted in Philip Yancey's book, Disappointment with God: "Faith like Job's cannot be shaken because it is the result of having been shaken."


2 comments:

Jeff said...

Love that quote.

I hope reading my first sentence doesn't cause dizziness, constipation, diarrhea, migraines, chest pains, hives or ingrown toenails.

Unknown said...

Warning: Reading blogs may cause a sudden decrease in blood pressure. While reading blogs you should not drive, shave, or operate heavy machinery.

If you have a blogging episode that lasts more than four hours you should contact your doctor immediately.