Which of the following drugs cannot be advertised to the general public?

• A. Ponstan 500 mg
• B. Sinecod 50 mg
• C. Cataflam 25 mg
• D. Imodium 2 mg

Answer: (A)

Advertising medicines directly to the general public is restricted to products that are safe for self-use and labeled for consumer sale. Prescription-only drugs, which require a clinician’s guidance to determine necessity, dosing, and safety, cannot be promoted to the public. Ponstan—mefenamic acid—is a prescription NSAID in many places because of risks such as stomach irritation and ulcers, kidney effects, and drug interactions. Because it needs medical supervision, it cannot be advertised to the general public. The other options are typically available over the counter in many markets and thus can be marketed to consumers, provided labeling and safety information are clear and accurate.