HCG Weight Loss Products Scam

HCG weight loss products, promoted heavily on the internet, promise dramatic weight loss results and claim to be homeopathic.  But according to the FDA, weight loss products containing HCG may be nothing more than a fraud and are being sold illegally.

HCG, or human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone produced in the placenta during pregnancy.  The hormone is approved as a prescription treatment for infertility and other conditions, but gained popularity in the 1950’s after a British doctor had a theory that it could help people on a near-starvation diet not feel hungry.  However, research and clinical trials have discredited that theory. 

HCG weight loss products are sold in various forms - drops, pellets and sprays – and are to be used in combination with a 500 calories per day diet.  They are aggressively marketed and sold on the web, in drugstores and at General Nutrition Centers.   

According to the FDA’s internet and health fraud team, while HCG weight loss products may not be dangerous they’re at least “economic fraud” since there is no evidence the oral over-the-counter products are effective for weight loss.  The HCG diet products sell online from $24.95 to $199.

Another issue is the homeopathic label.  Homeopathy is an alternative medicine practice of using very small or diluted preparations of medicines or remedies to treat a condition.  HCG products that claim to be homeopathic are not recognized by the FDA and are therefore unapproved drugs and are considered to be illegal. 

What many consumers don’t realize is that dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way that prescription drugs are regulated.  Manufacturers of HCG weight loss products are not required to prove the drug is safe and effective prior to marketing the drug.  There are no required clinical trials to show the HCG pills are effective.  As a result, many consumers trying to be healthy are experiencing economic fraud by using these products that data shows to be no better than the placebo in achieving weight loss or in reducing hunger.

If you have purchased an HCG homeopathic product, it may be important to contact an attorney who can help you protect your potential legal claim. If you would like more information, or would just like to talk with a lawyer experienced in this litigation, please call attorney Hart Robinovitch at 1.800.493.2827 for a free consultation or click below to fill out an online free case review. Zimmerman Reed is experienced in handling consumer fraud cases and we welcome any questions you may have.