Unproven Medical Treatments Lure Elderly : Part 2

by Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

(Page 2 of 3)

A Closer Look

Here's a closer look at some unproven therapies promoted for a variety of ills common in older people:

Cellular therapy promoters claim an extract from animal hearts can strengthen human hearts, eye extracts can cure eye disease, and so on. FDA says there are no scientific studies demonstrating the safety and effectiveness of cellular therapy for any medical purpose and warns of health problems, including severe allergic reactions and death.

Chaparral is an herb used in teas, capsules and tablets that promoters purport delays aging, cleanses the blood, and treats cancer. In early 1993, FDA warned consumers not to use it because it had caused serious liver and kidney troubles. Most manufacturers voluntarily withheld chaparral-containing products from sale, and consumers are advised not to use remaining products.

Coenzyme Q-10, a synthetically produced version of a naturally occurring enzyme, is promoted to slow aging by enhancing the immune system. Not only is there no proven benefit, but it may be dangerous for people with poor circulation, according to Edward L. Schneider, M.D., of the National Institute on Aging. Overall, there is no evidence that "boosting" the immune system delays aging, nor is there any evidence that it's possible to do so, according to Schneider.

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring chemical. Because levels decline with aging, some scientists speculate it may play some role in aging processes. But there is no proof that DHEA delays aging, according to Schneider.

DMSO, or dimethyl sulfoxide, is a solvent similar to turpentine promoted for arthritis relief. In a sterile form called Rimso-50, it is approved by FDA for treating a rare bladder condition called interstitial cystitis. For this approved use, it is instilled into the bladder for short times (20 to 30 minutes). This is the only approved human use. There are no controlled studies demonstrating its safety and effectiveness in relieving swollen, inflamed arthritic joints, and in an impure form it can harbor bacterial toxins that can enter the bloodstream even when applied topically. It is one of the few compounds rapidly absorbed through the skin. It can be especially dangerous if used as an enema, as recommended by its promoters.

Electrical stimulators are approved by FDA when prescribed by physicians for various conditions, including after-stroke therapy. However, FDA has not approved them for wrinkle removal and face lifts.

Germanium, an inorganic, nonessential element sold as a dietary supplement. Promoters claim it prevents and treats Alzheimer's, and advise users to apply bandage wraps saturated with it to treat arthritis and headaches. Not only is germanium ineffective, but it has caused serious irreversible kidney damage and death, according to FDA.

Gerovital-H3, originating in Romania more than 30 years ago, was brought here illegally and sold as a cure for arthritis, atherosclerosis, angina pectoris, hypertension, deafness, Parkinson's disease, depression, diabetes, and impotence. One of its ingredients is procaine hydrochloride, an anesthetic approved for dental use. No health claims for Gerovital have been substantiated, and FDA considers it an unapproved new drug. It has caused low blood pressure, respiratory difficulties, and convulsions in some users.

Herbal products are centuries-old, but mostly unproven, "cures" for everything from constipation to anxiety. They are available in various forms, including teas, capsules and tablets. Some are potentially dangerous. Chamomile tea, for example, can cause a severe allergic reaction in people allergic to ragweed. Lobelia can cause vomiting, breathing problems, convulsions, and even coma and death when used in large amounts; people with heart disease are especially susceptible. Comfrey has caused severe and even fatal liver disease. (See "Beware the Unknown Brew: Herbal Teas and Toxicity" in the May 1991 FDA Consumer.)

Lecithin, a naturally occurring component of certain body tissues, is touted for lowering cholesterol and treating Alzheimer's disease. There's no proof that it's effective for either one.

Low-intensity lasers are promoted to relieve arthritis pain, but FDA has not approved them for this or any other use.

About the Author

www.fda.gov
FDA is A United States government body that oversees medical devices, including contact lenses, intraocular lenses, excimer lasers and eyedrops. In the US, these products must be approved by the FDA before they can be marketed.