Tips for dealing with incorrect online info about your drug

Tips for dealing with incorrect online info about your drug

Panelists at the HMC Council's May Industry Forum in Philadelphia Wednesday fielded questions about what to do when false information about your drug starts spreading on the Web. Kevin King, vice president of Edelman Interactive Solutions, said this can be particularly challenging for pharma companies because of the time it takes Web copy to be approved by legal departments. Nevertheless, King says it's essential for pharmas to put correct, scientific information online. Melanie W. Kittrell, PhD, Merck's executive director of e-business strategies and solutions, also suggested that companies consider educating consumers about how to recognize credible health information. For example, the Viagra Web site has a section called Buy Real Viagra, which gives tips for avoiding fake Viagra and educates consumers about Viagra spam.