BIOLOGIC THERAPEUTICS AND ITS COMMERCIAL DOMINATION
The danger of commercialized therapeutics has been enormously increased by the introduction of biologic products. These substances offer a rich field for the commercially minded, first, because of the remarkable results which seem to have followed the use of certain products of this type; second, because the field is new and the mode of action of these substances not readily understood and, third—and most important—because, by the very nature of the problems involved, few physicians are well informed concerning them. The influenza epidemic of last year was widespread and fatal in character. It stimulated earnest research in methods of prevention and cure. We were all in a frame of mind to grasp at any straw. Here and there some worker would cry “Eureka”—only to be disappointed when his product was actually put to the test. However, there were more than enough manufacturers ready to place any product on the market with specious claims that could not be positively denied. Vaccines, serums, proteins—all were advanced with such glowing statements as to their properties that only those physicians who kept their feet firmly on solid ground could resist the appeal. Now we have had another epidemic—mild, it is true—but the memories of last year make the average physician ready to accept anything which promises hope, and the manufacturers “make hay while the sun shines.” Physicians have been and are being deluged with literature on the prophylaxis and treatment of influenza. So far as we know, few publications have contained any word of warning on these matters. One exception has just come to notice: the Medico-Military Review, a semimonthly mimeographed publication sent to medical officers of the Army by the Surgeon General’s Office. This says:
You Are Reminded that so far a comprehensive analysis of results obtained by the use of monovalent and polyvalent vaccines in the prevention of influenza has not demonstrated their value. Much carefully controlled experimental work is now being carried out on this subject both in civil institutions and in the Army, and any worthwhile advances will be reported in the Review from time to time. If a prospective vaccine is developed, it will be prepared at the Army Medical School for general distribution and all medical officers will be duly notified. The general use of the present commercial polyvalent protective against influenza is not considered desirable. Numerous telegrams and other requisitions are being received for influenza vaccine. In view of the fact that no prophylactic influenza vaccine is available, such requisitions should be discontinued.—(Editorial from The Journal A. M. A., Feb. 14, 1920.)