FDA warns of TV drug ads' distracting music, images

Television ads for drugs and medical devices should avoid distracting images and music that can reduce viewers' comprehension of potential side effects, the Food and Drug Association advised in guidelines proposed on Tuesday. Advertisements also should use similar type styles and voice-overs when conveying benefits and risks, FDA advised. The guidelines follow complaints that manufacturers use various techniques in their widely seen television ads and other promotions to downplay risks while emphasizing potential benefits.