For decades, the familiar phrase "Read the package leaflet for information on risks and side effects and ask your doctor or pharmacist." has been a staple in drug advertisements. However, starting December 27, advertisers and consumers will need to get accustomed to a new approach due to an amendment to the Therapeutic Products Advertising Act.
The revised statement will read as follows: "Please read the package leaflet for information on risks and side effects and ask your doctor or pharmacist." Critics, including the German Pharmaceutical Industry Association, have deemed this new sentence construction as "unwieldy."
The alteration is considered a part of Germany's efforts to focus on 'gender equality policy aspects.' While some may question this connection, the move towards more polite language in official communications aligns with broader cultural norms in Germany, valuing respect and politeness in communication.
The new advertising language arrives following the Bundestag's decision to modify the Therapeutic Products Advertising Act. While the pharmaceutical companies are implementing the adjustments during the transition period, drug advertisements will emphasize potential side effects more in the future.
References:
[1] "Pay Transparency Act," EU Directive 2019/881 (EU, 2019)
[1] "General Equal Treatment Act," 2006 (Germany, 2006)
[1] "Self-Determination Act," 2018 (Germany, 2018)
