Echinaforce: Swissmedic investigates possible advertising infringement
Following reports that the natural remedy «Echinaforce» might be a «miracle cure» for the coronavirus, the Swiss drug regulatory agency Swissmedic has launched an investigation. It is examining whether the product was advertised to the general public in violation of regulations.
On Wednesday evening, a Swissmedic spokesperson confirmed a corresponding report by the eastern Swiss broadcaster TVO at the request of the Keystone-SDA news agency. According to the supervisory authority, this could constitute prohibited advertising to the public for an unauthorized indication of a medicinal product.
Swissmedic did not provide any details. In general, medicinal products may only be advertised to the public in relation to the applications approved by the Agency for Therapeutic Products.
On Monday, the media published a study by the Spiez laboratory, according to which the herbal medicine "Echinaforce" from the Thurgau-based company A. Vogel helps against coronaviruses in the laboratory. The natural remedy made from extracts of the red coneflower was previously sold because it is generally said to strengthen the immune system and prevent colds.
Open effect in the human body
The researchers found that "Echinaforce" has a killing effect on coronaviruses in test tubes. According to the Spiez study, however, it is completely unclear whether the substance is also effective in the human body. The media reported that demand for "Echinaforce" rose sharply in pharmacies after the study became known. Some pharmacies apparently rationed sales as a result.
The Swissmedic spokesperson explained that the scientific publication by the Spiez laboratory in the "Virology Journal" on September 9 had led to misinterpretations. According to media reports, it had been reported indiscriminately, particularly in social media. This led to a rush among consumers to buy "Echinaforce" preparations and illegal offers on online platforms.
No scientific medical conclusions can be drawn from the laboratory study, the spokesperson continued. It is not advisable to buy preparations containing "Echinaforce" in advance. Swissmedic has also been working with platform operators and the cantons since the beginning of the week to delete illegal sales offers in order to protect consumers. (SDA)
