Alberta drugists oppose drug-to-consumer advertising. (Health).

CALGARY -- Drug-to-consumer drug advertising is not in the best interests of patients or the health care system, the Alberta College of, Pharmacists said in a June statement. Such advertising is permitted in the United States and the Canadian government is considering lifting the ban on such advertising.

The college does not support marketing campaigns directed at consumers for the purpose of creating increased awareness and demand for drug therapies, said Registrar Greg Eberhart.

Drug therapy is an asset, he said, if it is based on diagnosis; the patient's age, sex, health status, diet and lifestyle; potential drug interactions; the patient's ability to tolerate the drug or the drug's side effects; and cost effectiveness. Decisions should be made by a knowledgeable health professional, he continued.

Without considering those factors, drug therapy can be a major risk and expense, Eberhart said. The college is the regulatory and licensing body for pharmacists in Alberta. 780-990-0321