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FDA warns of false claims of STD products
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The FDA issued a warning to companies selling products that make unproven claims to treat sexually transmitted diseases — claims that could pose a threat to public health. The companies could face legal action if the products are not removed from the market, according to an FDA press release.
“Only prescription medicines and diagnostic tools available through a health care professional are effective for STD diagnosis and treatment,” officials said. The FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) said at least 15 products sold online and at some retail outlets claim to treat, prevent or cure herpes, chlamydia, genital warts, HIV and AIDS.
“If you aren’t treating your STD with an FDA-approved medication, you’re not just putting your own health at risk — you could be endangering your partner,” Debra B. Birnkrant, MD, an FDA director in the division of Antiviral Drug Products at the Office of New Drugs, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a press release.
Birnkrant said those who are sexually active, have had unprotected sex or have been exposed to an STD should get medical attention, especially if they have these symptoms: burning sensation with urination, pelvic pain, discharge from the penis or vagina, blisters or sores.
There are FDA-approved medications available to treat many STDs. These products have met federal standards for safety, effectiveness and quality — and are available only by prescription, she said.
Products targeted by the FDA and FTC include: Medavir, Herpaflor and Viruxo. To see a complete list of the false STD remedies, visit www.fda.gov/stdfraud.
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