FDA bans sale of purported
anti-aging drug

April 17, 1996
Web posted at: 8:00 a.m. EDT

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- The Food and Drug Administration Tuesday ordered a halt to sales of the drug DHEA, sold nationwide as an anti-aging product, because it has not been reviewed for safety and effectiveness.

The FDA says there has been no evidence submitted to substantiate expectations that DHEA, a steroidal hormone, assists in weight loss, enhances one's sex life or add years of life. It has been available without prescription.

The FDA is writing makers and distributors of DHEA to tell them they must stop selling it. If the companies fail to comply within 10 days of receipt of the letters, the FDA will consider regulatory actions against the products and companies.

The FDA says it has received few reports of adverse reactions to the drug but says risks of long-term use are unknown.

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