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With the increase in the number of new drugs and high competition among pharmaceutical companies, medical representatives use Drug promotional literature (DPL) to promote their drugs. DPLs are one of the most accessible means of drug information. Therefore, drug promotion by ethical means is important as it influences rational and ethical prescribing by clinicians. This study was undertaken to evaluate and analyze the various DPLs for their ethical and scientific status as per World Health Organization (WHO) Ethical Drug Promotion Guidelines. This is a cross-sectional, observational study, conducted by evaluating and analyzing 207 DPLs collected randomly over a period of 6 months from various out-patient departments (OPDs) of Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH). Of the 207 DPLs, a single drug was promoted in 48.31% and 51.69% were drug combinations. Only 60 (28.98%) of the DPLs fulfilled all 11 WHO criteria. References were mentioned in 75.85%; adverse drug reactions, contraindications, precautions, warnings, and drug interactions were listed in 32.85% of brochures, while dosage regimen was mentioned in 64.73% DPLs. The drug cost was highlighted in 7 DPLs (3.38%), while 2 DPLs (0.97%) did not mention the manufacturer’s name. Although 21.74 % literature showed relevant graphs and tables, 3% of brochures had irrelevant pictures. The most commonly promoted drugs were those acting on CNS (15.94%), followed by drugs acting on the cardiovascular system and anti-diabetic drugs (13.04%). In conclusion, majority of the DPLs did not follow the WHO guidelines and hence inadequate and unreliable drug information was promoted; which may mislead and result in irrational or unethical prescriptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim is to create awareness among the women of reproductive age group about the risks associated with consumption of drugs during pregnancy. More than 90% of pregnant women take prescription or non-prescription drugs at some time during pregnancy. In general, unless absolutely necessary, drugs should not be used during pregnancy because many of them are harmful to the fetus. Pregnancy introduces unique considerations for drug treatment due to its impact on the pharmacokinetics of medications and the potential harm certain drugs can pose to the fetus. While completely avoiding pharmacological treatment in pregnancy is impractical and risky, as some women have pre-existing medical conditions or develop new ones requiring medication, the challenge lies in balancing effective treatment with fetal safety. Historical incidents, such as thalidomide in the 1960s, highlighted the risks, but it’s crucial to note that congenital abnormalities from teratogenic drugs constitute less than 1% of total cases. To address these concerns, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) established a system in 1979 for assessing the teratogenic risk of drugs. This classification, ranging from Category A (considered safest) to Category X (absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy), helps guide clinicians in making informed therapeutic decisions. The article delves into various aspects of drug use during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of weighing risks and benefits to ensure optimal maternal health while safeguarding the developing fetus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]