FDA, FTC Warn Consumers About Offers of False H1N1 Influenza Cures

Some unscrupulous characters are trying to cash in on the worldwide spread of deadly H1N1 influenza by offering products they claim can diagnose, treat, or cure the life-threatening illness, U.S. authorities say.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission have issued a warning to consumers alerting them to be aware of the offers made on Internet sites and in other promotions. Also, companies making the false claims are advised that they will face tough enforcement from regulators for offering such fraudulent medical products.

“Consumers who purchase products to treat the novel 2009 H1N1 virus that are not approved, cleared or authorized by the FDA for the treatment or prevention of influenza risk their health and the health of their families,” said Michael Chappell, acting FDA Associate Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs.

Preying on Public’s Fear of Infection

The threat of the H1N1 virus has prompted widespread panic around the world. It was first detected in April 2009 in Mexico, where it has been blamed for about a dozen deaths and hundreds of illnesses. The strain has since spread and been detected across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. There has been one confirmed death associated with the virus in the U.S., officials said.

The H1N1 virus is a never-before-seen variation of influenza with elements of viruses seen in humans, pigs, and birds, officials said. There are no approved vaccines to treat it and there is no cure, the FDA said.

Only Two Approved Influenza Drugs

There are only two FDA-approved antiviral drugs for treatment of the H1N1 influenza virus: Tamilfu and Relenza.

Companies are using deceptive advertising and preying on the public’s fear and misinformation about the virus in pitching a variety of dietary supplements, drugs, and devices claimed to be cures or effective in detecting the virus in people.

The FDA said no such devices or treatments exist and that “such fraudulent products will not prevent the transmission of the virus or offer effective treatments against infections.”

Consumers who have questions about which drugs or devices are approved to treat influenza and the H1N1 virus are urged to contact their health care providers or legitimate medical supply services. Only approved treatments, such as Tamiflu and Relenza, prescribed by a reputable physician or other healthcare provider should be used.

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