Analysis of drug promotion literature as per the World Health Organization guidelines
Himani Deshwal, Surabhi Gupta, Lubhan SinghAbstract:
INTRODUCTION:
Drug promotional literature (DPL) is a commonly used source of drug information for clinicians, but it is often influenced by commercial interests. Concerns remain regarding its accuracy, completeness, and adherence to ethical standards. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established criteria for ethical medicinal drug promotion to ensure rational prescribing. This study aimed to evaluate DPL circulating in the Indian market for compliance with the WHO guidelines.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the tertiary care hospital in Western Uttar Pradesh from January 2025 to December 2025. A total of 300 DPLs were collected from various clinical departments. Each was analyzed using the WHO ethical criteria, assessing completeness of drug information, safety parameters, and scientific references. Results were expressed as frequencies and percentages.
RESULTS:
Single drug formulations constituted 59.67% of DPLs, whereas fixed-dose combinations accounted for 40.33%. Cardiovascular (18.67%) and endocrine (18.3%) drugs were most frequently promoted. Efficacy claims predominated (47.3%), followed by safety claims (19%). While brand name (100%), generic name (98.7%), and dosage form (100%) were consistently reported, critical safety information was less frequently included: side effects (75%), contraindications (62.7%), precautions (55%), and drug interactions (54%). Scientific references were provided in only 45% of DPLs.
CONCLUSION:
Most DPLs partially complied with the WHO ethical criteria, with significant deficiencies in safety information and scientific substantiation. The findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory oversight and improved clinician awareness to critically appraise promotional materials, thereby promoting rational drug use and patient safety.