The FDA has implemented new rules for TV and radio drug ads, effective Nov. 20, aimed at making the advertisements more clear and direct in explaining medication risks and side effects, The Sun reported Nov. 15.
Here are four things to know:
- The new rules require drug ads to use simple language, avoiding medical jargon, in order to make medication risk information easier to understand for the general public.
- The FDA is prohibiting the use of distracting visuals and audio effects in drug ads to prevent companies from downplaying or distracting viewers from essential risk information.
- Companies must present drug risk information "in a clear, conspicuous and neutral manner as mandated by a 2007 law."
- The new regulations also require displaying on-screen text about side effects while the audio announcement plays, to enhance viewer recall and understanding of the risks associated with the drug.