[Analysis of drug advertising in Spanish gynecology journals].

OBJECTIVES To determine advertising pressure in three Spanish gynecology journals, to describe the characteristics of the drugs advertised and to analyze compliance with current regulatory standards in drug advertisements. METHODS We identified the number of advertisements, the characteristics of the drugs advertised, the minimum information required by legislation and the advertising message in the selected journals. RESULTS A total of 139 advertisements were identified, corresponding to 33 distinct products (28 prescription medicines and five over-the-counter drugs). Advertising pressures were 18.13% in Progresos de Obstetricia y Ginecología, 16.18% in Acta Ginecológica and 5.21% in Clínica e Investigación en Ginecología y Obstetricia. Legislative failure occurred in 82.14% of the advertisements and in 22.22% of slogans, while 41.46% of advertising messages were misleading. CONCLUSION A critical attitude to advertising among health professionals is advisable. Information contained in advertisements should be contrasted with official and other independent sources.