Washington, D.C. (May 20, 2008) — Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) Senior Vice President Ken Johnson today released the following statement addressing the value of direct-to-consumer (DTC) advertising:

“PhRMA is committed to having an honest and open dialogue with members of Congress and all other stakeholders about the health benefits of DTC advertising. In fact, the recent hearing on this issue allowed several member companies to reiterate the fact that raising awareness of treatment options through DTC advertising not only informs patients potentially suffering from disease, it also benefits the entire healthcare system in the U.S. by encouraging patients to seek medical attention that may help them manage their conditions and avoid unneeded hospital stays or surgeries.

“While PhRMA cannot comment on individual company advertisements or advertising policies, it is important to stress that PhRMA member companies are committed to providing accurate, educational information to patients and health professionals about their medicines. This is evident in the fact that PhRMA’s Board of Directors unanimously approved voluntary guiding principles for DTC advertising, which became effective in January 2006. In addition, as part of the ongoing commitment by PhRMA to best serve the needs of patients and the broader healthcare community, we continue to welcome any feedback or input that stakeholders might have about pharmaceutical advertising practices.”

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The Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) represents the country’s leading pharmaceutical research and biotechnology companies, which are devoted to inventing medicines that allow patients to live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. PhRMA companies are leading the way in the search for new cures. PhRMA members alone invested an estimated $44.5 billion in 2007 in discovering and developing new medicines. Industry-wide research and investment reached a record $58.8 billion in 2007.

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