They may not march with placards or throw tomatos at Bernie Poussot. But the frustration over the recently announced job cuts - in which some 1,200 sales jobs are being eliminated - is prompting some reps to consider withholding applause for Wyeth management when they take the stage in Las Vegas for a pep rally to launch Pristiq, the newly approved antidepressant.

A saucy thread on CafePharma - the electronic bathroom wall where detailers love to dish - contains a heated debate over whether reps should “fake clap” or accept the reality of life in the slowing pharma lane.

“I will fake clap. I will not cheer or yell. I will attend all meetings and complete all assignments. I will behave in a professional manner at all times. I will treat my manager and coworkers with respect. I will do my best to sell Pristiq after the launch. But, I will not be a willing participant in the charade. I will not make noise, yell, scream, or otherwise act like a buffoon to please this disrespectful management. A message MUST be sent. This seems like the best way,” writes one.

But another disagrees: “I think everyone needs to get a grip. This is LIFE!!! People get laid off everyday. Those that were “placed” need to move on and get over it. We need to go to Vegas with a positive attitude. And… no I did not drink the Koolaid. Why do you want to keep feeling the way you have for the last 60 days- was it fun??? What would be so wrong with going to Vegas proud to have survived and happy to move on.” And this rep writes: “Big big mistake to follow this advice folks. If you can’t be part of the company after making it through the RIF, then I can guarantee you WON’T be with the company through the next one. They will be taking names. Just smile and be POSITIVE even though it kills you.”

Then there was this: “Beleive me, I’m going to try to sell Pristiq hard, as long as I work for Wyeth. It’s in my best interest to do my best. But I won’t give these idiots that have been treating the entire sales force like dirt, withholding information, and just generally not following their own ‘respect for people’ bullshit of the hook. I will not clap (or I’ll fake clap), I won’t yell, scream, etc. I’ll do my job and get out of Vegas and go sell Pristiq. But I’m not clapping or kissing ass.”