Himalaya Wellness Company has withdrawn its claims about Liv 52 Syrup, an over-the-counter Ayurvedic product, after complaints from health activist group CAPSULE Kerala. The company was accused of promoting Liv 52 for treating various liver diseases without sufficient evidence, and for making contradictory statements about the need for a physician's consultation.
Liv 52 Syrup was marketed as a treatment for serious liver conditions, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and liver damage due to radiation therapy. However, CAPSULE Kerala argued that these claims were unsubstantiated and breached several provisions under the Drugs and Cosmetic Act of 1945. According to Schedule J, Rule 106 of the Drugs and Cosmetic Act, advertising treatments or cures for 51 specified diseases, including liver disorders and hepatitis, is strictly prohibited.
The Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI) took notice of CAPSULE Kerala's complaint and prompted Himalaya Wellness Company to remove the misleading claims from its website and update its product descriptions on third-party platforms like Amazon.
It's worth noting that Himalaya Wellness Company has faced similar issues in the past. In 2023, the company took legal action against Dr. Cyriac Abby Philips, also known as "The Liver Dr," for allegedly making defamatory statements about Liv 52. The company claimed that Dr. Philips' statements were false and caused financial losses.
Key Points:
- Himalaya Wellness Company withdraws claims about Liv 52 Syrup.
- CAPSULE Kerala complains to ASCI about unsubstantiated claims.
- Company breaches Drugs and Cosmetic Act of 1945 provisions.
- Liv 52 syrup marketed for treating serious liver conditions without evidence.
- Himalaya Wellness Company faces similar issues in the past.
This development highlights the importance of regulating health claims and ensuring that companies provide evidence-based information to consumers. It also underscores the role of activist groups like CAPSULE Kerala in promoting transparency and accountability in the healthcare industry.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Vaishnavi Dalvi/MSM)