Consumer AlertFDA/FTC/CDCObesity

Warnings expanded for 72 weight-loss products

 The FDA has posted a list with the specific contaminants in each mislabeled product, plus FAQs.

The bottom line?
Get to know the lingo used to promote fraudulent drugs.

  • Promises
    • “easy” fix for problems like excess weight, hair loss, or impotency
  • Claims
    • “scientific breakthrough”
    • “miraculous cure”
    • “secret ingredient”
    • “ancient remedy”
  • Impressive-sounding terms for weight loss products
    • “hunger stimulation point” 
    • “thermogenesis” 
  • Undocumented amazing results
    • case histories or testimonials by consumers or doctors
  • Promises
    • no-risk, money-back guarantees

And my personal favorite…

  • Safe because it is “natural”

3/23/09 12:07 JR

Hi, I’m JR

John Russo, Jr., PharmD, is president of The MedCom Resource, Inc. Previously, he was senior vice president of medical communications at www.Vicus.com, a complementary and alternative medicine website.