Warnings issued for misleading product promotions - Brief Article

AORN Journal,  July, 2003  

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The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) have issued warning letters to web site operators, manufacturers, and distributors who claim their products will protect against, treat, or cure severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), according to a May 9, 2003, news release from the FDA. An Internet search found 48 web sites advertising SARS prevention and treatment products. Products promoted as treatments for SARS included personal air purifiers, disinfectant sprays and wipes, respirator masks, latex gloves, and dietary supplements such as colloidal silver and oregano oil. Prevention kits containing several of these items also were advertised.

Web site operators contacted by the FDA or FTC must remove any misleading or deceptive claims from their sites or face possible state and federal prosecution. It is against the Law to make health claims without rigorous scientific support. In addition, warning Letters have been sent to eight manufacturers and distributors who have made misleading claims. Currently, no products have been found effective in preventing, treating, or curing SARS.

FTC and FDA Crackdown on Internet Marketers of Bogus SARS Prevention Products (news release, Rockville, Md: US Food and Drug Administration, May 9, 2003) http:// www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00904.html (accessed 21 May 2003).

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