Beware of fake claims by opioid treatments

Scammers are capitalizing on the opioid epidemic by marketing phony treatments, according to the Better Business Bureau. The FTC and FDA recently issued a warning to companies that deceptively advertise these treatments.

How this Scam Works:

You see an ad for a product that claims to ease opioid withdrawal symptoms. Many of these phony products claim to be a “miracle cure” with “guaranteed” results. Many brands stress that their pills are “all natural,” “organic” and contain vitamins and herbs. For examples, check the FDA’s Flickr account of photos of illegal products.

Trying one of these “cures” may seem harmless, but it’s more than just a waste of time and money. Using products with unsubstantiated claims can prevent those addicted to opioids from seeking safe and effective treatments.

Tips to avoid this scam:

Be skeptical. Beware of any product making claims like “miracle cure” or “fast results – guaranteed.” Many of these treatments that make these bold promises are not FDA-approved. Find help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a referral and information service. Consumers can call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit SAMHSA.gov for confidential and free information. Check with a doctor. Before taking any dietary supplement, ask a health provider about it. Find a list of questions on FDA.gov. Check with BBB. Visit BBB.org to view the company’s BBB Business Profile. Business Profiles include contact information, complaint history, and customer reviews.

For more Information:

Read the full article about opioid addiction treatment scams on BBB.org.