Direct-to-Consumer Advertising of Psychotropic Medication and Prescription Authority for Psychologists

The debate regarding prescription authority for psychologists has made salient the probable impact of pharmaceutical marketing on psychologists' prescribing practices. However, the potential impact of direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) of prescription medications on prescribing habits has not been adequately addressed with the psychological literature. When prescription authority is granted, practicing psychologists and trainees need to be aware of the potential impact that DTCA could have on them as both consumers and patient care providers. The current review provides a brief history of direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical marketing and then focuses in on issues relevant to the advertisement of psychotropic medication. The impact that DTCA could have on psychologists is explored, both in practical and theoretical realms.