“The Internet and mobile communications will have a profound effect on both the pharmaceutical and the general healthcare sectors over the next 5 years, visiongain reports”.

San Francisco, CA and London, UK - The purpose of this visiongain report is to analyse the extent to which online e-solutions will contribute to the pharmaceutical sector during the period 2006-2011. Report author Dr Gordon Low said, "Pharmaceutical eMarketing to consumers and prescribing doctors will continue to grow steadily. Online technologies will become increasingly important as mass-media DTC advertising faces growing resistance from consumers and regulators. Also, diminishing returns from medical sales forces will drive the industry further towards eDetailing.” Nevertheless, spending on other promotional channels -especially traditional detailing - will overshadow investments in pharmaceutical eMarketing from 2006-2011, visiongain predicts.

In this report, visiongain forecasts that spending on eMarketing/promotion by the pharmaceutical industry will grow steadily from 2006-2011, reaching over $480m by 2011. There will also be an expansion of ePrescribing and online sales of pharmaceuticals. The Internet is an ideal channel for transmitting both brand-specific and educational campaigns, especially through interactive content. The potential for improved efficiency and cost savings are great, both to industry and other healthcare providers. There are also great opportunities for suppliers of technology platforms for online healthcare.

ePharma: The Online Pharmaceutical Industry, 2006-2011 examines eMarketing, ePrescribing and online drug sales critically through comprehensive primary and secondary research. In addition to consultation with experts in eMarketing and ePrescribing, this research involved a detailed study of policy documents, industrial reports and relevant news. Importantly, Visiongain applied techniques such as financial forecasting, SWOT analyses and qualitative projections. The result is a comprehensive market-based report with detailed analysis and informed opinion.

It is therefore vital for pharmaceutical companies to invest in online marketing and sales technologies now, to harness their great potential and to achieve pre-emptive competitive advantages. The range of electronic solutions for pharmaceutical sales, marketing and prescribing is vast, with both the Internet and mobile communications showing significant promise.

ENDS

Notes for editors:
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Background:
Visiongain is one of the fastest growing and most innovative independent media companies in Europe today. Based in London, UK, visiongain produce a host of business-2-business conferences, newsletters, management reports and E-Zines focusing on the Financial markets, the Pharmaceutical, Telecoms industries and the Defence sector.