What does the Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987 prohibit regarding drug samples?

The Prescription Drug Marketing Act of 1987 plays a crucial role in regulating the distribution and use of prescription drug samples. One of the key provisions of this Act is the prohibition against the sale, trade, or purchase of drug samples. This restriction is in place to ensure that drug samples are used as intended — to provide free access to medications to healthcare professionals for the purpose of treating patients rather than being treated as commodities for profit.

By prohibiting the sale and trade of drug samples, the Act aims to prevent corruption and unethical practices in the distribution of pharmaceuticals, such as drug repackaging and unauthorized distribution that could compromise patient safety. This regulation supports the goal of ensuring that drug samples are provided directly to healthcare practitioners, allowing them to make informed decisions about the medications being prescribed without the influence of market manipulation.

The correct answer reflects an essential safeguard intended to maintain the integrity of pharmaceutical distribution and promote responsible healthcare practices.