No therapeutic effects in dietary supplements, FDA stresses

Even if they are endorsed by "testimonials," food and dietary supplements have no approved therapeutic or curative effect, the Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday reminded the public.

 

In an Oct. 31 advisory, FDA acting director Kenneth Hartigan-Go said such supplements have not been given approval for any therapeutic effects—a status granted only when proven by clinical studies.

 

"Promotional or advertising materials containing testimonials and anecdotal information on food/dietary supplement associated with healing or curing diseases are not allowed," he said.

 

"The FDA further advises the public not to believe any curative claims on food or dietary supplement and not to stop prescribed medications in favor of food or dietary supplement, unless otherwise advised by a physician," he added.

 

He also noted the FDA, through Bureau Circular No. 02 in 1999, had already required a "NO APPROVED THERAPEUTIC CLAIMS" statement on the labels of dietary supplements.

 

Thus, he said the public should not fall for such testimonials given with or without the consent of the food manufacturers, importers or distributors.

 

Also, he said the FDA issues certificates of product registration to food and dietary supplements complying with regulatory requirements.

 

He said the public can verify the registration status of such products with FDA's landline (02) 842-5606. –KG, GMA News