Consumer Group Pushing For FDA’s Info In TV Drug Ads

Boston (dbTechno) - The Consumers Union has come out and stated that they want people to have easier access to the FDA. They have petitioned the FDA to require that TV drug ads feature a toll-free number and Web site address to reach the FDA.

The idea behind it is that patients will be able to use the Web site or toll-free number to report side effects to the FDA.

The consumer group filed the petition with the FDA late in 2007.

There have been over 56,000 who have signed on so far.

A federal law last year forced drug ads to include the phone number and Web site of the FDA.

The consumer group now wants it in TV ads as well.

The text that appears in the print ads states “‘You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.’