Evolution of Rx Drug Promotion: Researchers Eye Data Brokers, Digital Tools, Global Influencers

US FDA staff acknowledge the challenge of assessing promotions on the internet as experts note trends and topics for future research, including the use of metadata and embedded advertisements, TikTok promotions, and DTC ads extending into countries that prohibit them.

Digital advertising
Experts come up with agenda for research on prescription drug promotion • Source: Alamy

The growth of prescription drug promotion in the digital realm has raised a slew of questions about how consumers are being targeted and influenced. Experts see the use of metadata, data brokers, and hidden advertising as fodder for future research.

The Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy and the US Food and Drug Administration asked academicians who have conducted research in...

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