However, based on the methodology employed, the study raises more questions than it answers, he said.
“For example, did the kids actually take the medication received as a free sample?
“Did the families subsequently receive a prescription for ongoing treatment?
“Does the availability of free samples influence a physician's overall prescription pattern?
“The authors have opened an interesting avenue of inquiry. I expect these and other questions will be addressed in subsequent studies,” he added.
The authors stated they had no financial relationships relevant to this study.
Dr. Fassler said he had no conflicts of interest with respect to this issue.
'Does the availability of free samples influence a physician's overall prescription pattern?' DR. FASSLER