FDA issues sanitary napkin alert

MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a “public health warning” against false and misleading claims of panty liner and sanitary napkin brands that using their products may cure various diseases.

In an advisory, FDA interim chief Rolando Enrique Domingo said the public should be vigilant against “false, deceptive and misleading claims” of some feminine product brands.

Contrary to the promotional stunts of manufacturers and sellers, Domingo said these products cannot relieve tension, reduce irritation, release negative ions and prevent or cure diseases like urinary tract infection, myoma, vaginal odor and hormonal imbalance, among others.

“While as general rule, panty liners/sanitary napkins are not required to seek proper authorization from the FDA, panty liners/sanitary napkins with health claims require such authorization,” he added.

Domingo warned that the sale and marketing of unregistered products constitute violation of the Food and Drug Administration Act of 2009.

“False, deceptive and misleading advertisement” of these products is also tantamount to violating the Consumer Act of the Philippines of 1992.

“The public is thus advised to be vigilant and observe precautionary measures in purchasing unregistered panty liners/sanitary napkins with health claims, false, deceptive and misleading health claims,” the advisory read.