What was that pill for?

Some of the most-advertised prescription drugs on TV include treatments for diabetes and weight loss (such as Ozempic and Mounjaro), arthritis and psoriasis (such as Humira and Skyrizi), and blood thinners (such as Eliquis). Search any medication you've seen advertised to learn what it treats.

The United States and New Zealand are the only two countries that allow full direct-to-consumer prescription drug advertising on television. That's why TV drug ads are so common in the US but rarely seen elsewhere.

Drug companies advertise directly to consumers to encourage patients to ask their doctors about brand-name medications. Because many advertised drugs are expensive, even a small increase in prescriptions can justify large TV ad budgets.

Type the brand name into the search box above. TVPills shows you what the drug treats, how it works, its common side effects, who makes it, and ways to save on the cost.

Drugs advertised on TV are approved by regulators like the FDA, but every prescription medicine carries risks and possible side effects. Always talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medication.