Search
 
Expert Opinion

What does the FDA think of Instagram influencers and medical promotions?

The FDA mandates that ads for medical devices and pharmaceuticals must include possible risks of use, but do these rules apply on social media?

By Richard Binder | March 13, 2019 at 10:12 AM
According to a report in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, one in three U.S. consumers consult social media for health-related matters (Denys Prykhodov/Shutterstock.com)

From reality TV star baby announcements to mysteriously popular eggs, Instagram’s power to reach millions cannot be overstated. It’s no surprise that businesses have attempted to capitalize on that reach by partnering with “influencers,” or users with thousands or millions of followers, to advertise their products. These partnerships are often lucrative for the influencers: Kim Kardashian, for example, reportedly charges more than $250,000 for an Instagram post. But when pharmaceutical companies and health startups use influencer-advertising, do some details get lost in the posting?

According to Vox, the answer is yes. And when it comes to regulating these ads, government agencies are still vague on setting boundaries.

Complete your profile to continue reading and get FREE access to BenefitsPRO.com, part of your ALM digital membership.

Your access to unlimited BenefitsPRO.com content isn’t changing.
Once you are an ALM digital member, you’ll receive:

  • Critical BenefitsPRO.com information including cutting edge post-reform success strategies, access to educational webcasts and videos, resources from industry leaders, and informative Newsletters.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM, BenefitsPRO magazine and BenefitsPRO.com events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

Recommended Stories

BenefitsPRO

Join BenefitsPRO

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to navigate the shifting employee benefits industry. Join BenefitsPRO.com now!

  • Unlimited access to BenefitsPRO.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on BenefitsPRO.com and ALM events.

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join BenefitsPRO

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.