The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers to not rely on over-the-counter (OTC) asthma products labeled as homeopathic. These products are widely sold in retail stores and on the internet.
Many of these products include indications ranging from treatment of acute asthma symptoms to temporary relief of minor asthma symptoms. If it is not properly treated and managed, patients may experience wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, and be at risk for life-threatening asthma attacks. Consumers are encouraged to look for words such as “HOMEOPATHIC” or “HOMOEOPATHIC” on the product’s label to identify such products. Also, active ingredient(s) that are listed in terms of dilution such as “LM1”, “6X”, or “30C” may also help in identification.
RELATED: Cautious Use of Prenatal Antibiotics Advised to Reduce Asthma Risk in Offspring
Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events related to use of these products to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety information and Adverse Event Reporting Program.
For more information visit FDA.gov.