Drug Samples: Friend or Foe?

May 2005 | Volume 1 | Issue 1 | Original Article | 49 | Copyright © May 2005


Melvin P. Coolidge., MD

Abstract
The common practice of drug manufacturers in providing 'free' samples to physicians has influenced the business of medicine in several ways. This article analyzes some of the pros and cons of drug sampling, including from professional, societal, economical, legal, and practical perspectives, and provides suggestions on how to dispense with some of the problems inherent in the current system.