Unlicensed arthritis treatment 'could be harmful'
Last updated 13 July 2012
People with arthritis have been warned not to use an unlicensed medicine called Arthroplex.
The treatment is available in capsule and gel form and claims to relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and joint pain.
However, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has warned that the product is being advertised illegally on the internet and that its claims are unproven.
It has not been tested for quality, safety and effectiveness and could therefore pose a risk to health, the agency said.
David Carter, manager of the MHRA's Medicines Borderline Section, said: 'Adverts like Arthroplex make attractive claims but the fact is just because products are described as natural it does not mean to say that they are safe.
'If you believe you are suffering from any of the medical conditions listed in the advertisements please seek proper medical advice.'
Arthroplex contains a number of natural ingredients, including arnica, horse chestnut and papaya.
Many people turn to alternative therapies in the belief that natural ingredients are bound to be 'safe'.
However, this is not necessarily the case and some natural ingredients interact with conventional medicines to cause unwanted and sometimes dangerous side-effects.
Anyone considering using herbal remedies is advised to speak with their doctor first.
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