More From NCCAM
Alerts and Advisories
In January 2007, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed complaints against the marketers of four dietary supplements being widely advertised for weight loss and weight control (and, often, for other health purposes). The FTC charged that the claims for these products were misleading and were unsupported by competent, reliable scientific evidence.
The marketers of TrimSpa, Xenadrine EFX, CortiSlim, and One-a-Day WeightSmart surrendered cash and other assets worth at least $25 million and agreed to limit their claims in the future. Said FTC Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras, "You won't find weight loss in a bottle of pills that claims it has the latest scientific breakthrough or miracle ingredient. Paying for fad science is a good way to lose cash, not pounds." For more, see www.ftc.gov/opa/2007/01/weightloss.htm.
Also in January, the manufacturer of Liviro3, a dietary supplement marketed for sexual enhancement, announced it is voluntarily recalling the product. Lab analysis by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found that Liviro3 contains tadalafil, a prescription drug for treating erectile dysfunction, making Liviro3 an unapproved drug. Tadalafil may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs (such as nitroglycerin) and dangerously lower blood pressure. Consumers of Liviro3 should stop using it immediately and contact their physician if they have experienced any problem from taking it.
The FDA is encouraging consumers who experience a serious side effect to file a report to the MedWatch program. See www.fda.gov/oc/po/firmrecalls/ebek01_07.html.
New from the Clearinghouse
The following new publications are available on the Web and from the Clearinghouse:
- Herbs at a Glance fact sheets: Aloe Vera, Cat's Claw, Chasteberry, Ephedra, Evening Primrose Oil, Feverfew, Goldenseal, and Hawthorn
- A Spanish version of Paying for CAM Treatment
- An Introduction to Probiotics
- Ask Your Patients About Their Use of CAM and Tell Your Doctor About Your Use of CAM
