FDA Warns Companies Making False Claims About Dietary Supplements and Skin Creams

Federal officials have sent warning letters to multiple companies, including One Life USA and HealthCore21, for falsely claiming that their dietary supplements and skin creams can prevent cancer and other diseases without scientific proof. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have targeted companies that exaggerated the benefits of products touted as alternatives to hormone therapy. These companies were warned to halt deceptive marketing or face fines in the future.

Key Takeaways:

• The FDA and FTC sent warning letters to at least 37 companies across the country for making false claims about dietary supplements and skin creams.
• One Life USA, based in Palm Beach, claimed that its Barbecs progesterone skin cream can prevent breast cancer, treat depression, regulate blood sugar, and improve blood clotting.
• HealthCore21 in Pembroke Pines marketed a pill containing soy "isoflavones" that allegedly reduces the risk of cancer.
• The companies were warned not to make unsubstantiated claims about the health benefits of their products.
• The FDA has not assessed whether the products alleviate the symptoms of menopause.
• Federal law does not require the makers of dietary supplements or natural products to prove safety or effectiveness.
• Consumers are advised to be skeptical of claims about natural products and to not assume they are safe or effective just because they are natural.

Statistics:

• At least 37 companies received warning letters from the FDA and FTC.
• One Life USA sells a 2-ounce tube of Barbecs progesterone skin cream for $6.
• HealthCore21 sells a pill containing soy "isoflavones" for $27 for 120 pills.
• The companies were not punished, but were warned to halt deceptive marketing or face fines in the future.

Sources:

• "Federal officials warn companies of false cancer claims against dietary supplements" by South Florida Sun-Sentinel, Nov. 15, 2005.