The modern drug store has come a long way since the first apothecary born out of the Middle Ages. Evolving and changing, drug stores have expanded their wares throughout the years to become big business in America. They sell everything from books to hedge clippers. This is the place Americans go to purchase, in many cases, life-sustaining prescription medications.

Pharmaceutical Companies and Advertising

The Nonpartisan Center for Public Integrity reports that pharmaceutical companies spent more than $855 million, which is more than any other industry, between the years of 1998 and 2006. This has proved effective in expanding their market and creating a demand for drugs they advertise.

Drug companies follow many avenues to reach the public. The newest advertising technique effectively bridges the gap and goes directly to the consumer. It is called direct-to-consumer advertising(DTCA).