Pick up any newspaper or magazine and you’re likely to find at least one advertisement describing ways to combat baldness, erectile dysfunction, obesity or menstrual cramps. The radio, TV and roadside billboards carry similar messages of hope. Are they accurate? Do the products work? Should you pay attention?
Because a product made of all-natural ingredients does not require approval by the Food and Drug Administration, many “medications” or other “cures” are largely unregulated.
How do you determine what is or is not legitimate? Do your homework! Ask questions! Be careful.
Read the label carefully to determine a product’s ingredients. If you have any doubts, don’t use it. Seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor. Ingredients should always be listed.
Determine whether the manufacturer is reputable. Are you familiar with the company name? Ask your pharmacist or doctor. Contact the Better Business Bureau. If the product is sold in the drugstore and you still have doubts — you guessed it — talk to your pharmacist.
Ask your family, friends or co-workers whether they are familiar with the product and whether it lived up to either their expectation or the manufacturer’s claims.
Is the product warranted with a money-back guarantee? This does not always ensure legitimacy, but at least you should be able to get your money back. If the company is willing to stand behind its product (and its guarantee), there appears to be a sincere commitment.
Is the cost reasonably competitive with the marketplace value for similar products? Beware of the overpriced “quick fix.”
Can you reach the company only through the mail? And is there a two-to-three-month delivery time? Reputable companies offer easy access, usually through a customer service department, as well as prompt delivery.
Above all, never depend on unknown medications or treatments for serious illnesses. Mail-order houses do not stock cures for cancer, heart disease or diabetes without requiring a doctor’s prescription. Consult your physician, who may even suggest a medication you have seen advertised, as one component of an overall treatment plan.
Some highly advertised health products do work. Vitamins can make you feel better, some diet products can help you lose weight, if used in a sensible manner, and even some baldness remedies appear to be effective. But always remember to check with your physician.
Don’t risk your health to save money or to chase the impossible dream. And, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true!
Dr. Michael M. Warren is Ashbel Smith professor of surgery at University of Texas Medical Branch Division of Urology.
