The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned that imported dietary natural supplements and non prescription drugs sold at nontraditional places may contain toxic ingredients. People with limited proficiency in English may also be prone to such risks. In addition , people who often prefer to shop online may also be vulnerable to the tricks of scammers .
However, supplements that are marketed as natural may not necessarily be safe to take, and they may contain some harmful chemicals or drug ingredients not listed on the label . For instance , many products marketed for weight loss contain hidden and dangerous prescription drug ingredients like siburtramine
Sibutramine was an active ingredient in Meridia, a formerly FDA-approved drug that was removed from the market in 2010 after clinical data showed it raised the risk of heart problems and strokes. In addition , even ingredients of FDA-approved drugs may be harmful in the dosages or amounts used in these ” natural ” products
Additionally, even ingredients of FDA-approved drugs may be harmful in the dosages or amounts used in these “natural” products. How do we then know that a product is fraudulent ? Check it out below
How do you know a product is fraudulent?
The FDA recommends watching out for the following claims that are often used to sell nonprescription products:
- One product does it all. It is unlikely that one product can cure a wide range of diseases.
- Success stories about the product curing diabetes or cancer are easy to make up and do not substitute for scientific evidence.
- Even legitimate supplements and medications can rarely treat complex diseases and conditions in a short period of time, such as helping to lose 30 pounds in 30 days. If claims sound too good to be true, they probably are.
- Consuming some plants found in nature can make you seriously sick or even kill. Moreover, the FDA has found that products marketed as “all natural” contain hidden and dangerously high doses of prescription drug ingredients.
- FDA-approved. Neither domestic nor imported dietary supplements are approved by the FDA. The law does not require supplements to be examined by the FDA before they are introduced in the market.
Fraudulent products may not only be ineffective in treating your conditions but also make them worse. Other scammers illegally sell imported antibiotics. Using them without a prescription and with no physician oversight can easily lead to misuse and overuse, contributing to antibiotic resistance.
Very Important : If you’re considering buying a product with questionable claims, discuss it with your doctor or other healthcare professional first.
Post source: healthnews.com
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