The informational and symbolic content of 150 over-the-counter drug co
mmercials on television are empirically analyzed in this study. Result
s on the informational content suggest that over-the-counter drug ads
tend to focus on the concern of what the drug will do for the consumer
, rather than on the reasons why the drug should be ingested. Accordin
gly, advertising strategy is centered on consumer awareness of the pro
duct as the primary goal. Educational commitment, however, did not see
m to be blended into the promotional efforts for over-the-counter drug
s. Findings on the symbolic content of over-the-counter drug ads revea
l that drug images have been distorted. Performance of most drugs has
been portrayed to be simple resolutions to relieve the symptom. Moreov
er, a casual attitude toward drug usage is encouraged in the commercia
ls, while time lapse of drug effects is overlooked.