Regulators warn against supplements claiming to cure infertility, other reproductive issues

*The US Food and Drug Administration alerts consumers to know that these products are not based on proven scientific information, and they have not been reviewed for safety and efficacy, as it sends five companies warning letters

Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect

While cautioning consumers that claims presented on the supplements could prevent them from seeking out treatments that are actually effective, the United States Food and Drug Administration has warned that some supplements on the market falsely claim to help to cure, treat, mitigate, or prevent infertility and other reproductive health issues.

ConsumerConnect reports the FDA in a statement said most of the drugs in question are unapproved, and are sold online.

Many are falsely labelled as “dietary supplements,” stated the American regulatory agency.

Officials also say the claims presented on the supplements could prevent consumers from seeking out treatments that are actually effective.

It noted: “It is important to know that these products are not based on proven scientific information, and they have not been reviewed for safety and efficacy.”

In reinforcing the agency’s caution to consumers, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also joined the FDA in sending warning letters to five companies for illegally selling dietary supplements that claim to cure, treat, mitigate, or prevent infertility and other reproductive health disorders.

In view of its warning, the agencies have sent warning letters to LeRoche Benicoeur/ConceiveEasy; EU Natural Inc.; Fertility Nutraceuticals LLC; SAL NATURE LLC/FertilHerb; and NS Products, Inc.

The FDA further stated: “These purported fertility aids seek to profit off of the vulnerability and frustration many may feel as they face difficulties in getting pregnant.

“Relying on ineffective, unproven products can be a waste of time and money, and can possibly result in illness or serious injury.”

As regards fake consumer testimonials on same products, the FDA said claims that sound too good to be true probably are.

According to the agency, false claims on some of the products include: “One product does it all” or “Miracle cure” or “scientific breakthrough” or “cure all.”

The agency added that some sellers even include fake consumer testimonials, including  the following:

“You will get pregnant very fast and give birth to healthy children regardless of … how severe or chronic your infertility disorder.”

” … a perfect natural alternative to infertility drugs or invasive treatments.”

“best fertility supplements to boost your chance of pregnancy or improve your IVF success rate.”

“… treat infertility… effectiveness in preventing recurrent miscarriages during early stage pregnancy.”

The FDA, therefore, advises consumers to talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider before deciding to purchase or use any dietary supplement or drug.

It also disclosed that effective, science-based infertility treatments, such as FDA-approved drugs or assisted reproductive technology, are available to those struggling to get or stay pregnant.

Daniel Kaufman, Acting Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, said: “Women and families who face fertility issues deserve the best that science has to offer.

“The FTC is proud to work with the FDA to ensure that when companies make claims about fertility treatments and cures, those claims are backed by solid scientific evidence.”