FDA, FTC Crack Down On Illegal HCG Weight Loss Products

The Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Trade Commission issued warning letters today to seven companies that market over-the-counter weight loss products containing the hormone HCG, calling for these companies to stop selling and marketing these unapproved drugs.

Human chorionic gonadotrpin (HCG), otherwise known as a fertility hormone, is produced in women's placentas and is also found in pregnant women's urine. The hormone is FDA-approved only as a prescription injection drug to treat some cases of infertility and for select male hormone imbalances.

Some studies suggest that HCG can also absorb excessive fat tissue. Many companies also claim the hormone can curb appetite and speed metabolism.

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