When you’re browsing the Internet, one of the best ways to protect yourself from false, and even possibly harmful, products is to ask yourself if a claim sounds too good to be true, or if it contradicts what you’ve heard from reputable sources.
On July 12, 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued warning letters to companies that are violating federal law by selling products that contain drugs that are marketed as food. hidden or undisclosed prescription rates. These products are labeled as honey with herbal ingredients and are marketed with claims to treat disease or improve health.
These products are promoted and sold to enhance sexual performance on various websites and online marketplaces, and possibly in some retail stores. If you have sexual performance problems, you may have a physical condition that prevents your body from responding normally. Talk openly with your healthcare professional before considering any treatment.
The real danger
With some products, simply reading the label and trusting its content is not enough.
The real danger may be what is not on the labels of these products: hidden prescription drugs that can put your health at risk or even kill you.
The FDA is detecting an increasing number of illegally marketed adulterated honey-based or honey-flavored syrup products that test positive for off-label active drug ingredients.
FDA laboratory testing found that product samples contained prescription active drug ingredients not listed on the product labels, including active drug ingredients from Cialis (tadalafil) and Viagra (sildenafil), which are FDA-approved drugs. FDA to treat erectile dysfunction. Sildenafil and tadalafil are restricted for use under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional. These undeclared ingredients can interact with nitrates found in some prescription medications, such as nitroglycerin, and can lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates.
Also, because companies label these products as food or dietary supplements and sell them illegally, they are not subject to the same approval process or quality standards as the drugs your doctor prescribes.
In conclusion
Why should you be wary of honey-based or honey-flavored syrup products to enhance “sexual performance”?
- The hidden active drug ingredients in these products can be a dangerous health risk for patients with certain diseases, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease.
- You may be taking a product that could have serious interactions with other medications you take. Never assume that these products will safely interact with your prescription or over-the-counter medications.
- The dosage of the undisclosed ingredient, which may be a drug, is not controlled. Some products contain only a few percent of a normal prescription dose, while others contain several times the typical dose.
- Other than safety concerns, there is no medical evidence that consuming this type of herbal honey provides any improvement in sexual performance or other claimed benefits.
Report problems
The FDA wants to know if you have had an unexpected reaction to an FDA-regulated product or if you suspect the illegal sale of medical products online. If you want to make a report or ask a specific question, FDA pharmacists are available to help you use medications safely.
FDA Compliance with the Law
The FDA has warned consumers about hundreds of products with hidden, off-label ingredients, many of which claim they can enhance sexual performance. In addition, the agency issued warning letters and halted the importation of products into the US, stopping them immediately upon entry. FDA may also bring other civil or criminal actions against those who continue to violate the law.