Personal use of drug samples by physicians and office staff.

CONTEXT

Pharmaceutical samples are commonly used in ambulatory care settings. There is limited research on their use or impact on health care providers and patients.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the extent of personal use of drug samples over a 1-year period by physicians and medical office staff.

DESIGN, SUBJECTS, AND SETTING: An anonymous cross-sectional survey of all physicians, resident physicians, nursing staff, and office staff in a family practice residency.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Quantity of drug samples taken for personal or family use.

RESULTS

Of 55 surveys issued, 53 (96%) were returned. A total of 230 separate drug samples were reported taken in amounts ranging from 1 dose to greater than 1 month's supply. Two respondents reported no use of drug samples, while 4 respondents reported taking more than 10 different samples.

CONCLUSION

Drug samples are commonly taken by physicians and office staff for personal and family use. The ethical implications of this practice warrant further discussion.