The possibility that a natural dietary supplement might contain dangerous ingredients not on the label has prompted the Food and Drug Administration to issue a warning to consumers.
The product in question is called Reumofan Plus. It was manufactured in Mexico by a company known as Riger Naturals and then potentially distributed to a variety of websites, flea markets, and retail stores. The item has a Spanish label that touts the supplement’s ability to help combat osteoporosis, bone cancer, muscle pain, arthritis, and more.
During an analysis in an FDA laboratory, officials discovered that the drug contains two pharmaceutical ingredients that might endanger consumer health: Methocarbamol and Diclofenac Sodium. Neither of these two ingredients is listed on the label of the product. The former is a muscle relaxant typically only available through prescription. Methocarbamol can cause dizziness, impede motor function and mental ability, or lower a person’s blood pressure. Diclofenac sodium is a non-steroid anti-inflammatory drug that could cause a person to experience a heart attack or a gastrointestinal issue.
In addition to the danger from these two drug ingredients, the Mexican Ministry of Health was able to detect the corticosteroid dexamethone, a drug that suppresses the immune system.
Anyone who thinks they have recently used Reumofan Plus is being urged to consult a doctor. The FDA has received numerous reports of adverse events in conjunction with the item.