Government, Big Pharma, and The People: A Century of Dis-Ease

Pharmaceuticals are a critical part of healthcare, but many people do not fully understand their complexities. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry, its challenges, and its relationship to consumers, government, and other stakeholders. It explores the dynamic tension between these three groups and how they interact, leading to controversies and unexpected consequences. The author uses his experience to provide an inside look at Big Pharma and how regulations, marketing, and the press have affected their business.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 476 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2020
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Pharmaceuticals play a crucial yet relatively modest role in overall healthcare spending in most developed economies. Despite this, they remain a central focus in the ongoing discussions about enhancing, improving, and making healthcare accessible. However, a significant portion of the debate participants may not possess a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies and complexities of the pharmaceutical industry and its profound impact on health and healthcare systems.

To gain a deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry, its contributions to health and healthcare, and the multifaceted challenges it faces, the analytical tools of economics offer a solid foundation. By examining the dynamics of the industry, its role in promoting affordability and innovation, as well as the various private and public policy initiatives directed at it, we can gain a more nuanced perspective.

The pharmaceutical industry permeates various aspects of our lives, from the drugstore to the physician's office, television screens, and everyday conversations. Drugs have become an integral part of our society, shaping our values and influencing societal norms. Examples such as the pill and minor tranquilizers serve as notable illustrations of this relationship.

The way Congress deliberates and the pharmaceutical industry responds significantly impacts how drugs affect our lives. This book, meticulously researched, delves into the history of the pharmaceutical industry, its challenges with government regulation, and its relationship with consumers from the early twentieth century to the present. It explores the dynamic tension between the three key participants: government, big pharma, and the people, shedding light on the controversies that continue to shape the industry today.

The author provides a comprehensive account of the government's role in regulating the pharmaceutical industry, including its investigatory efforts and the ultimate impact of regulations on the industry and consumers. They also discuss the strategies employed by big pharma to navigate the regulatory landscape and maintain their profitability.

Furthermore, the book delves into the consumer's perspective, examining the impact of pharmaceutical products on health and well-being. It raises important questions about the safety and effectiveness of drugs, the role of marketing and advertising in shaping consumer perceptions, and the ethical considerations surrounding drug pricing and access.

By examining these various aspects, this book offers a comprehensive understanding of the pharmaceutical industry and its complex interplay with government, big pharma, and the people. It serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, healthcare professionals, consumers, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper insight into the dynamics and challenges of this vital sector.

Weight: 930g
Dimension: 177 x 254 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367432447