Injectable products may contain unknown substances or contaminants
THURSDAY, Sept. 3, 2015 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning that injectable skin-lightening products are potentially unsafe and ineffective.
The agency has not approved any of these products, and they may contain unknown harmful ingredients or contaminants. The products themselves pose risks, and improper or unsafe injection methods can transmit disease, cause infection, and lead to serious injury, according to the FDA.
The agency said the products — marketed for injection into a vein, a muscle, or under the skin — are sold online and in some retail stores and health spas. Some products have continued to be offered for sale even after being recalled as unapproved drugs, the FDA said.
“In general, consumers should be cautious of any product marketed online with exaggerated claims on safety and effectiveness,” FDA pharmacist In Kim said Tuesday in an agency news release. “They also should consult their health care practitioner before deciding to use any new product.”
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