Ethical Marketing of Drugs Pharmaceutical Products

Ethics – a moral principle shaped by subjective views, is an insoluble dilemma in marketing, particularly when it comes to pharmaceutical products which are seen as a health concern. The price of pharmaceutical drugs, in an economical as other consumer goods. Thus, pharmaceutical companies must consider the marketability and profitability of their products as well as their targets. However, medicine and health care have long been established as a personal necessity, as it is unequivocal that increased health care provision improves health as well as promotes society’s well-being. Thus, as medications became more normalized for personal use and have been integrated into people’s lives, the government has also intervened, setting a price ceiling for certain medications and restricting the purchase of potent drugs over the counter. This creates a more public nature for drugs and medical devices, distinguishing the market for pharmaceutical products from other commercial goods.

Categories of Medication

Medication is generally classified into two categories: general sales list (GSL)/ over the counter (OTC) and prescription medicines. Under these two categories, there could be further classifications such as complementary medicine, controlled drugs, etc. OTC drugs have very few legal restrictions and can be bought almost anywhere such as in health and beauty stores, not just in pharmacies. OTC drugs include aspirin, antacids, antihistamines, paracetamols, and other vitamin supplements. Although these drugs are less potent than other medications, they still pose a risk of developing an addiction and can be harmful when consumed with other drugs. Abusing OTC drugs long-term can result in severe health problems such as memory loss and kidney failure.

Prescription medicines must be prescribed by a health care professional such as a doctor, who is licensed to prescribe medication. These prescription medicines must be taken directly as prescribed as it has a greater risk of addiction and other harmful effects if misused. Similarly, pharmacy medicines are only available for purchase behind the counter and the pharmacist has the right to refuse the sale if they believe that it is not a suitable medication for the individual.