Effects of Direct-to-Consumer Advertising on Medication Choice: The Case of Antidepressants

Abstract

Although direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) has generated substantial controversy, little is known about its effects on consumer and physician behavior. In this article, the authors examine the impact of DTCA and physician detailing on the choice of antidepressant medication. The authors find that detailing has a much greater effect on medication choice in the antidepressant market than does DTCA.