Arthritis Supplement Reumofan (or "WOW") Contains Unlisted Medications

Here's a notice for your waiting room bulletin board: Manufacturers are recalling Reumofan Plus, an herbal supplement marketed as "100% natural," because it has been found to contain active pharmaceutical ingredients not listed on the packaging: methocarbamol (a muscle relaxant), dexamethasone (a corticosteroid), and diclofenac (a non-steiroidal anti-inflammatory drug). The supplement has been used for arthritis, muscle pain, osteoporosis, and other conditions.

Its stated ingredients include curcumin (a component of tumeric), white willow, and shark cartilage.

The FDA first warned the public about the dangers of Reumofan Plus on in June 2012. Subsequently,it has received reports adverse effects related to the supplement including fatalities, stroke, severe gastrointestinal bleeding, dizziness, insomnia, high blood sugar levels, liver and kidney problems, and corticosteroid withdrawal syndrome.

Two months ago, the FDA warned that Reumofan Plus was being relabeled and sold under the name “WOW.” The FDA has confirmed that “WOW” contains the same unapproved prescription drug ingredients that have been found in Reumofan Plus.

Both of these drugs are manufactured in Mexico by Riger Naturals and sold on various websites, including www.reumoplanusa.com and www.gonepainfree.com. Despite recent warnings, the manufacturer Reumofan USA LLC reportedly has continued online sales of Reumofan Plus. The product has also been sold in the past at retail outlets and on Amazon and eBay.

Healthcare professionals and consumers are encouraged to report problems associated with Reumofan Plus products and “WOW” either online at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/medwatch-online.htm or by phone at 800-FDA-1088.