Personal use of drug samples by physicians and office staff

CONTEXT: Pharmaceutical samples are commonly used in ambulatory care. There is limited research on their use or impact on health care and patients. OBJECTIVE: To determine the extent of personal use of samples over a 1-year period by physicians and medical office staff. , SUBJECTS, AND SETTING: An anonymous cross-sectional survey of all, resident physicians, nursing staff, and office staff in a family residency. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Quantity of drug samples taken for or family use. RESULTS: Of 55 surveys issued, 53 (96%) were returned. total of 230 separate drug samples were reported taken in amounts ranging 1 dose to greater than 1 month's supply. Two respondents reported no use drug samples, while 4 respondents reported taking more than 10 different. CONCLUSION: Drug samples are commonly taken by physicians and office for personal and family use. The ethical implications of this practice further discussion.