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Isn't drug prescription under the control of doctors in Canada?


Mostly but not completely. If you take "doctors" broadly (e.g. including dentists and psychiatrists) then mostly yes. Some prescriptions are available more widely (e.g. birth control pills) and pharmacists also have varying powers to generate repeat prescriptions (they can provide emergency prescriptions almost everywhere; and they can provide unlimited prescriptions for "maintenance" drugs like thyroxine in some provinces).


That doesn’t stop drug advertising in the US. Patients often come in asking for a drug, and doctors are influenced by ads as well.


And pharma reps. I have an extended family member (a Dr., no less), that does this for a living. A walking, talking, knowledgeable shill for one particular company.




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