MHRA warns against 'potentially dangerous' unlicensed arthritis drug Arthroplex
Practice After receiving more than 70 complaints, the MHRA and Advertising Standards Agency have warned patients against Arthroplex, an unlicensed and untested drug that claims to fight the symptoms of arthritis.
The MHRA has warned patients against buying Arthroplex – a "potentially dangerous" unlicensed arthritis treatment – after it received complaints about illegal advertising of the product.
Arthroplex, which has listed ingredients including arnica, horse chestnut and liquorice, is available in capsule and gel form, but, as an unlicensed product, has not undergone testing for quality, safety or effectiveness.
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Advertising Standards Agency and the MHRA have received more than 70 complaints about the medicine |
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The Advertising Standards Agency and the MHRA have received more than 70 complaints about the medicine after it was advertised online and in magazines with claims that it could relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain. The product is being sold for as much as £168 for a 12-month supply. MHRA medicines borderline section manager David Carter advised anyone suffering from the medical conditions listed in the advertisements to seek medical advice. |
ABPI hits out at MHRA negativity on European
anti-counterfeiting plans"If anyone has bought or used this product, or has any concerns then please speak to your GP or healthcare professional," he said.
People should be wary of buying unproven products online or by mail order, agreed Arthritis Research UK medical director Alan Silman. "Often people prefer the sound of natural products. However, natural does not mean they are either safe or effective," he added.
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