By Mia Burns
AstraZeneca has launched a new Nexium YouTube channel to help educate consumers about the product and garner support for gastroesophageal reflux disease patients. The channel features disease information, videos, and interactive content.
“The Nexium YouTube channel was created to engage, support, and educate people affected by acid reflux disease,” says an AstraZeneca spokesperson. “We also know that people are using social media platforms like YouTube to learn about medical conditions and treatment options.”
When patients visit the channel, they can find several items, such as “burning thoughts”, which provides tips on controlling GERD symptoms; videos on acid reflux disease and Nexium as a treatment option; and the Relief is at Hand badge. The badge is a social way for patients to share Nexium information with family and friends. In addition, the badge allows acid reflux patients to show their commitment in fighting GERD, and they can “pass the purple” on Facebook and Twitter.
“The majority of patients today use social media to source health and wellness information,” said Ken Graham, commercial business leader, GI, AstraZeneca. “With more than 1 billion unique users visiting YouTube each month, the Nexium YouTube channel puts everything from background on GERD to information on cost savings for Nexium at patients’ fingertips.”
The company has yet to hear feedback on the channel as it so new; the AstraZeneca spokesperson told Med Ad News Daily. “AstraZeneca believes that social media can play an important role in advancing public health,” the spokesperson says. “New content on the Nexium channel will continue to focus on engaging and educating the public about acid reflux disease and Nexium.”
“For more than two decades, AstraZeneca has been a leader in developing medications and educational resources for gastrointestinal diseases,” said Marta Illueca, executive director medical affairs and strategic development for Cornerstone Brands. “The Nexium channel represents a new and innovative way through which we’re looking to reach and engage patients.”
Posted: July 2013