Drug-selling Websites: a New Scenario in Public Health? A Systematic Review

摘要: Background Drug-Selling Websites (DSWs) are companies that sell pharmaceutical preparations, including prescription-only drugs, on the Internet. Very little is still known about this phenomenon, due to its hidden nature when occurring outside national legislation. The aim of study was perform an up-to-date and comprehensive review scientific literature focusing broader picture DSWs by scanning several institutional databases, with no publication time limits. Methods We searched as January 2011 four electronic databases (PubMed, ISI web knowledge, Science Direct PsycInfo), grey Internet using Google search engine tool Scholar, we investigated official websites 7 agencies (World Health Organization, US European Centers for Diseases Control Drug Regulation Authority. We focused specifically offering drugs. decided analyze further report only articles original data, in order all available data regarding their usage. three main areas which focuses: characteristics websites, quality products purchased online, number consumers characteristics. Regarding first group (articles dealing DSW characteristics) reported, if available, analyzed, year collection, willingness dispense pharmaceuticals or without a prescription, availability physician’s assistance online medical consultation, disclosure contact details, geographic location, delivery conditions, types medicines drug information, prices drugs overall costs, sales-promotion strategies, presence certifications, duration privacy disclaimer statements, date last website update. Results We selected 198 relevant articles: 76 117 (editorials, regulation like) 5 reviews. Our findings show great part papers reflection articles, such commentaries editorials, do not include data. When they contain latter highly fragmentay answer varying demands, different method. concerned samples 47 cases, purchases 13, consumer 15, case reports adverse effects 12. Conclusions The evidence shows important phenomenon continuing spread, despite partial regulation, intrinsic difficulties linked impalpable evanescent global dimension. From point view, example emblematic internet public health: where health – terms education does take control phenomena, someone else does, interests often very people’s health. A considerable effort must therefore be made keep up technological advances resulting social changes, means international approach, exploit Internet’s huge potential, while minimizing risks it can generate. []