Watch out for tainted sexual enhancement products
In the journals
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
In May, the FDA announced a list of certain sexual enhancement products that contain hidden ingredients that may pose a significant health risk for users. These items, sold online and over the counter, claim to provide benefits, such as increasing testosterone levels, preventing erectile dysfunction, and boosting stamina.
The FDA's testing found many of these products contain active drug ingredients not listed on the product labels, including some ingredients found in prescription drugs. According to the FDA, these products may cause potentially serious side effects and interact with other medications or dietary supplements.
You can view the list of products flagged by the FDA at /TSEP. The list likely includes only a small fraction of the potentially dangerous products marketed to consumers online and in stores, the FDA added. Even if a product is not included on this list, consumers should exercise caution before using these types of products.
Image: © Douglas Sacha/Getty Images
About the Author
Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
