The Danger of the Free Drug Sample

It seems like a kindness from the physician. A free drug sample of prescription medication saves some dollars and it allows some exposure to the product before purchasing. However, for children, this free drug sample may be unsafe:

“…The researchers found that one in 20 American children received free drug samples in 2004. And among those who took at least one prescription drug that year, nearly one in 10 received free samples.

This in concerning, since the researchers also found that some of the most frequently distributed samples may be unsafe.”

link: Free Prescription Drug Samples Pose Risk to Kids

This marketing plan by drug companies places children at direct risk. The drug manufacturers are eager to have the physicians try the medication and use it with their patients. The exposure of the medication is simply good for business. This present study shows that there are inherent dangers with this marketing plan.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) takes a vital role in the safety of prescribed medication. Recently, the FDA has begun an online initiate to post a listing of problems with prescribe medication. Nevertheless, the length of time that the FDA takes in addressing medication safety concerns points to the need for more staffing and more funding to this agency. Yes, more government spending…

Catherine Forsythe