Online Drug Information in Canada

Executive Summary

The Internet is fast becoming a major source of information on prescription drugs for consumers, patients and healthcare professionals. In particular, there has been a rapid increase in the interest in using Internet social media as an avenue for drug promotion. While online drug advertising is regulated in a similar fashion to other types of advertising mediums in Canada, it has many unique features that raise a number of important questions. This report focuses on five research questions intended to broaden our knowledge about online drug information and advertising in Canada.