Influence of Promotional Materials on Drug Prescription

A survey study was conducted to understand the prevailing situation of drug promotional practices in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia as well as the relationship between drug promotional material gifts and drug prescription behaviors. For the study, human health professionals including doctors, pharmacists, health officers, first degree graduate nurses and others working in both public and private health institutions were considered. Among the total 200 sample respondents, 100 were drug promoters; while the remaining 100 being drug prescribers. The data generated were also supported by relevant information from available sources. Indicator factors that were considered to help in understanding whether drug promotional material gifts influence the behavior of drug prescribers include preference in the use of drug generic name versus brand name; frequency of contact between drug promoters and prescribers and drug promotional material gifts offered/received; the comprehensiveness and value of drug information contained in gifts; the need of promotion and promotional material gifts for drugs; the monetary value of promotional gifts; and the influence of drug promotional material gifts.