New Campaign Urges Americans to 'Be MedWise' When Using OTC Drugs

1/18/2002

From: Cindu Karra, 202-974-5009 Nancy Glick, 202-974-5083

News Advisory:

At a time when six of the top 10 most frequently used medications are over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, (JAMA, Jan. 16, 2002) the National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE) will hold a press conference on Jan. 22 to launch a far-reaching consumer educational campaign about the safe use of OTC medicines.

The campaign is an outgrowth of a comprehensive national survey examining the attitudes and beliefs of adult Americans, pharmacists, nurses and general practice physicians regarding OTC drug use. The survey finds that one-third of Americans (33 percent) -- or more than 64 million adults -- say they take more than the recommended dose of a nonprescription medicine. Along with releasing the complete survey findings, the press conference will unveil a new television public service spot that will begin airing this month.

Who: National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE)

Speakers: -- Ray Bullman, executive vice president, NCPIE, Bethesda, Md. -- Dr. Hal Quinley, group president of media and public relations, Harris Interactive, Rochester, N.Y. -- Dr. Linda Katz, deputy director, Division of OTC Drug Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA -- Ellen Shapiro, director, Division of Public Affairs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, FDA -- Thomas Menighan, president of the American Pharmaceutical Association, Washington, D.C.

WHAT: The launch of "Be MedWise," a public awareness campaign to educate consumers about the proper use of OTC medicines.

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 22 10 a.m.

WHERE: National Press Club, First Amendment Room 529 14th St., NW, Washington, D.C.