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In this section: Buying & Using Medicine Safely

Medication Health Fraud

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Medication health fraud includes the marketing of medication products with unproven, false, or misleading claims about those products' ability to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent diseases or conditions. Use of medication products marketed with unproven claims or containing hidden drug ingredients could cause serious health problems. Stay informed, know the risks, and prioritize your safety.

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Three pill bottles with the label "Miracle Cure".

Medication Health Fraud Questions and Answers

Learn about medication health fraud and red flags. Search a database of more than 1,000 unapproved products.

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Products with Hidden Ingredients

Learn about hidden ingredients—those not listed on the label—and how they can be harmful or fatal, even in products claiming to be “all-natural.” FDA testing identified products promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, body building, arthritis/pain, or use as sleep aid that contain hidden drug ingredients.

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Medication Health Fraud for Specific Diseases and Conditions

Learn about medication products with unproven, false, or misleading claims about the products' ability to diagnose, cure, mitigate, treat, or prevent diseases or conditions, such as cancer, autism, and more.

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The Risks of Buying Prescription Medication Online

Beware of online sellers that claim to provide prescription drugs without a doctor’s order.

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What Is FDA Doing About Medication Health Fraud?

Learn how FDA protects consumers and patients.

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Counterfeit Medicines

Illicit, counterfeit medicine is fake and may be harmful to your health.

Report a Problem to FDA

Report adverse reactions or other problems with drug products. Consumers can play an important public health role by reporting to FDA any adverse reactions or other problems with drug products.

MedWatch: The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program

FDA’s medical product safety reporting program for health professionals, patients and consumers.

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