FDA Moves to Stop Bogus Products Sold Over the Counter and Online that Falsely Claim to Cure and Treat STDs

Hispanic Health Network Warns Members "No Legitimate Treatment for STDs is Available Without Prescription"

Bilingual Helpline Services Available at 1-866-783-2645 from National Alliance for Hispanic Health

WASHINGTON, May 4, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- "The public's health has won out over the actions of a few unscrupulous manufacturers that put profit first," said Dr. Jane L. Delgado, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance), the nation's leading Hispanic health advocacy group. Commenting on actions taken by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in concert with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to halt fraudulent claims, Dr. Delgado stated, "Stopping manufacturers from making unproven claims to prevent, treat, or cure sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) was the right thing to do. Consumers with concerns about STDs should see their health provider for testing and appropriate prescribed medication or vaccinations."

FDA-approved drugs and vaccines for the treatment and prevention of STDs can only be obtained by prescription through a licensed healthcare professional. Currently there are no FDA-approved drugs or dietary supplements available over-the-counter (OTC) that can prevent, cure, and/or treat STDs. Condoms are the only OTC products cleared by FDA to help prevent sexually transmitted infections. According to the FDA, fraudulent STD products are being sold primarily over the Internet, but some are also available in local retail stores. Marketers of fraudulent STD products are in violation of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.

According to the FDA and FTC, some fraudulent STD products that have been identified include H-Stop Dx, H-Guard Dx, Wart Dx, Molluscum Dx, EverCLR3, Herpeset, C-Cure, Viruxo, Medavir, and Wartrol. A dozen firms have received warning letters requiring all unapproved claims be stopped. Firms that do not correct the violations may face enforcement action, possible legal penalties, and criminal prosecution. Additionally, FDA and FTC are warning consumers and healthcare professionals not to purchase or use these fraudulent STD products.

"Those using products not prescribed by their health provider for STDs are putting their health and that of their sexual partners at risk. We are here to help with information on STDs, what fraudulent products are included in today's action, and referral to health providers in your community," emphasized Dr. Delgado. Information is available free of charge from the Alliance's bilingual and toll-free Su Familia National Hispanic Family Health Helpline (1-866-783-2645 or 1-866-SU-FAMILIA) as well as on the Alliance's website (www.hispanichealth.org).

About the National Alliance for Hispanic Health

The National Alliance for Hispanic Health is the nation's foremost science-based source of information and trusted advocate for the health of Hispanics in the United States. The Alliance represents thousands of Hispanic health providers across the nation providing services to more than 15 million each year, making a daily difference in the lives of Hispanic communities and families. For more information, visit www.hispanichealth.org or call 1-866-783-2645.

Contact: Adam J. Segal, 202.422.4673 or [email protected]

SOURCE National Alliance for Hispanic Health