The Guadalajara Reporter

New law protects against false medical claims

Purifimax promises to wash the liver, improve digestion, balance metabolism, clean toxins in the blood and facilitate weight loss. It comes in a reassuring white and blue bottle of 60 pills for about 500 pesos. But starting February 17, Purifimax and other miracle products will no longer be able to make such claims in their marketing. According to a new law signed by President Felipe Calderon, the Federal Commission for Protection against Health Risks (COFEPRIS) will have the power to shut down any advertising campaign for products making such sensational claims.

Various herbal and alternative medicine snake oils dot the healthcare landscape in almost every country. Some people seek them when traditional medicine fails, but in Mexico, some use them as a primary way to manage ailments. This, according to COFEPRIS director Mikel Arriola, represents a risk to public health.

As per the new law, in order for products to advertise medical effects, they must first properly register with COFEPRIS—a process that requires them to submit scientific proof of those effects.

The law increases fines up to 1,040,000 pesos for makers or advertisers of products that put the health of the public at risk.

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