I think they stink for a few reasons:
1. They'll put these right up against anti-drug commercials. What kind of message is that? Don't do those drugs over there, but yes, definitely do these drugs over here. This creates neuroses, and therefore, the demand for Paxil.
2. They rarely tell you what the drug is for, rather say things like "only zantac is zantac". Huh? What's that mean?
3. They will tell you every undesirable side effect no matter how graphic they are, and it's usually when you're sitting down for dinner. "May cause unwanted rectal discharge" - remember that one? Thanks, Eli Lily, for plugging that image in my brain.
4. Why are they marketing directly to the general public if they must be acquired through a prescription?
5. Many of the drugs are unnecessary and are made to cover up the effects of poor lifestyle choices: a corrective action rather than preventative, thereby prolonging the problem and creating the need for more medicine.