Jarvik on the Hot Seat
It seems there is mounting concern over Dr. Robert Jarvik—pioneer of the artificial heart—appearing in Lipitor advertisements. Stephanie Saul of The New York Times reports:
I don’t know, these ads just leave a bad taste in my mouth.
A Congressional committee, concerned that the Lipitor ads could be misleading, has said it wants to interview Dr. Jarvik about his role as the drug’s pitchman.These ads have never sat will with me. Honestly, they reek of Dr. Jarvik “selling out.” Know what I mean? Here, decide for yourself:
Some of the questions may involve his credentials. Even though Dr. Jarvik holds a medical degree, for example, he is not a cardiologist and is not licensed to practice medicine. So what, critics ask, qualifies him to recommend Lipitor on television — even if, as he says in some of the ads, he takes the drug himself?
And, for that matter, what qualifies him to pose as a rowing enthusiast? As it turns out, Dr. Jarvik, 61, does not actually practice the sport. The ad agency hired a stunt double for the sculling scenes.
I don’t know, these ads just leave a bad taste in my mouth.
"For many people like me, diet and exercise aren't enough."
That phrase makes me angry every time I see the commercial.
Hey Paige-
Same here! The other commercials that REALLY annoy me are the Vytorin TV ads, the ones with the family and food. Makes me insane! Grrrrr!
Peace.
-Gerry
This is why I can't stand watching TV. I can't stand the commercials!
I am grateful that I won't have to look at and listen to Jarvick whoring for Lipitor any longer.