I think the pharmaceutical manufacturers had some crazy idea that they would develop medication, sell a lot of it, and make a lot of money. Advertising creates brand recognition which can help people feel more comfortable with using a particular product.

Levitra, Viagra, and Cialis are perfect examples of products that need brand recognition in order for people to feel more comfortable using them. After all, if race car drivers endorse Viagra... you shouldn't feel like you have a "problem" if you have to use it should you? Your spouse might feel more comfortable with the fact that you need this medication after seeing a commercial.

Advertising makes people associate products with lifestyles. An advertisement for medication that treats osteoarthritis and joint pain is bound to have older people smiling and playing tennis, swimming, or running on the beach. Why? Because older people want to be able to play tennis, swim, or run on the beach. The medication will help them do it. If the viewer can associate themselves with the lifestyle portrayed in the advertisement, they will feel more comfortable when their doctor prescribes the medication.

Yes it is all about money, but is this entirely evil? Do you go to work every day to make the world a better place? Or, do you go to work every day to receive a pay check? These commercials are all psychology driven by capitalism.