Speaking of big pharma, it's so sad how Dr. Jarvik, the inventor of the artificial heart, has consented (likely for big bucks*) to be the "face" of Lipitor. I believe the U.S. is the only country that allow direct-to-consumer marketing of prescription drugs. Funny how we get so bent out of shape about illegal drugs but not about prescription drugs, which can be just as lethal, if not more...
(p.s. there's an article in the NYT about how the vigorous man shown sculling [rowing] in the river thanks to the benefits of Lipitor isn't even Dr. Jarvik himself! Apparently he hates the outdoors...)
** according to the ABC news, it was 1.35 million (via the blog Pharmalot).
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AP DataStreamAAA - Jan. 08, 2008
WASHINGTON_House Democrats are investigating whether consumers are being misled by advertisements for Lipitor, featuring the world-renowned inventor of an artificial heart.
In the ads, which began their heavy rotation in 2006, Dr. Robert Jarvik talks about the benefits of Pfizer's cholesterol-lowering drug, the world's best-selling medication.
Michigan Reps. John Dingell and Bart Stupak sent a letter to Pfizer Monday, questioning Jarvik's credibility.
"In the ads, Dr. Jarvik appears to be giving medical advice, but apparently, he has never obtained a license to practice or prescribe medicine," the lawmakers state. A spokesman for Dingell on Monday could not confirm whether Jarvik is certified to practice medicine, but cited media reports that he never took an internship or practiced medicine.
Jarvik could not be reached by phone Monday evening.
According to the Web site of his company, Jarvik holds a degree in engineering from New York University and a medical degree from the University of Utah.
After earning a medical degree, physicians must complete a series of tests to earn certification to practice medicine.
Pfizer spokesman Chris Loder said Jarvik's presence in the advertisements is meant to educate consumers on the importance heart health.
read more here.
fredag 8 februari 2008
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