Re:

7/13/11

To the editors:

The public benefits from Warren Procci's balanced assessment of challenges around treating depression (7/13/11).  The impact of direct to consumer advertising (DTCA) on discourse (and patient preference) about this condition cannot be overestimated.  Since the mid-1990's, when the FDA loosened its regulations on such advertising, there has been a massive escalation in money spent for drug advertising.  The cultural zeitgeist has shifted in worrisome ways.  Psychotherapy, alone or in combination with medication, is a legitimate and evidence based treatment for depression.  The public will see no advertisement selling the benefits of psychotherapy.  Given the distortions inherent in DTCA where the goal is to sell a brand, I believe such advertising should be restricted to facilitate balanced information being obtained from impartial sources.

Respectfully,

Larry Sandberg MD