PUBLIC HEALTH AND THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY: BIOETHIC IMPLICATIONS IN THE PRODUCTION OF CARE

Abstract

Introduction: The relationship between pharmaceutical industry and physicians has started since the last century with financial and logistical support on continuing education. Such involvement remains and has encompassed professionals working in public health services, mostly by means of drug propagandists. Objective: This study analyzes the influence of industry in the drug treatment of a population assisted by Family Health Units in Campina Grande - PB. Methods: This was an exploratory-descriptive study with quantitative and qualitative approaches, using interviews as instrument applied to Family Health professionals. Results: It was observed that 90% of units had "free sample" drugs which were dispensed to users using as criteria patients’ needs and lack of financial resources for purchase. Conclusion: This relationship represents a conflict as regards service logistics, since it counteracts the National Drug Policy as well as presents ethical implications when the completion of treatment is not guaranteed by such drugs. Thus, it is recommended a national debate comprising all government sectors to assess ethical principles about the impact of pharmaceutical industry advertising on public health. DESCRIPTORS: Drug Industry. Bioethics. Primary Health Care.