Health

American Medical Association Calls For Ban On Prescription Drug Ads

The AMA says prescription drug ads are at fault for rising drug prices.

American Medical Association Calls For Ban On Prescription Drug Ads
Getty Images / Mario Tama
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If the American Medical Association has its way, you can say goodbye to ads like this: 

"She's still the one for you and Cialis for daily use helps you be ready anytime the moment is right," says the announcer in a Cialis ad

Tuesday, the AMA said it wants the federal government to ban prescription drug ads. Doctors say the ads drive demand for expensive treatments and cause prices to rise

In a statement, the group said, "Patient care can be compromised and delayed when prescription drugs are unaffordable and subject to coverage limitations by the patient’s health plan." 

The AMA cites a study that says prices for both generic and brand name drugs rose 4.7 percent just this year. And in the last two years, drug companies spent 30 percent more on ads, hitting $4.5 billion in 2014. 

Unsurprisingly, at least one group that is not happy with the announcement –– the pharmaceutical industry. A statement from the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America said direct-to-consumer ads provide "scientifically accurate information to patients so that they are better informed about their health care and treatment options."

But the public is probably going to side with the AMA on this one. In a recent poll by Kaiser Family Foundation, 72 percent said prescription drug prices are too high. 

This video includes images from Getty Images.