The FDA is advising consumers not to use these or similar products because they may contain harmful ingredients or may be otherwise unsafe, or may improperly be marketed as over-the-counter products when they should be marketed as prescription products. Using these products could cause consumers to delay seeking proper medical treatment for their diabetes.
The illegally sold products include:
- Products sold as “natural” treatments for diabetes, but containing undeclared active pharmaceutical ingredients in unknown quantities that could cause harm or complicate medical conditions;
- Dietary supplements and ayurvedic products (medicine of the healing arts that originated in India) with claims to treat, cure, and/or prevent diabetes;
- Unapproved drugs sold over-the-counter, including some homeopathic products, intended to treat complications associated with diabetes, which include relieving symptoms caused by nerve damage in the arms and legs (also called peripheral neuropathy); and
- Prescription drugs for diabetes sold by online pharmacies without a prescription.
The FDA is not aware of any reports or injury or illness from taking the illegally sold products, but is taking action to protect public health from potential harm.
[1] FDA News Release "FDA alerts companies to stop illegal sale of treatments for diabetes" (July 23, 2013).