Warning out on supplements

MANILA, Philippines—The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned the public against believing the “curative claims” made by producers of dietary and food supplements in their advertisements to market their products.

FDA Acting Director Kenneth Hartigan-Go also said that consumers  should not replace their prescribed medication with food and dietary supplements “unless otherwise advised by a physician.”

“The FDA hereby warns the public to be cautious in taking food or dietary supplements for curing purposes as they have no approved therapeutic claims,” Hartigan-Go said in a statement.

“This applies to testimonials given by certain individuals with or without the consent of food manufacturers, importers or distributors promoting or advertising said products,” he added.

Hartigan-Go said the FDA requires manufacturers of food supplements to print “No approved therapeutic claims” on their labels to inform consumers that these supplements have “no approved curative effects.”

Hartigan-Go said the FDA issues certificates of product registration only to food and dietary supplements that are compliant with regulatory requirements.

“The registration status of any food or dietary supplement can be checked through FDA landline 8425606,” he added.