A Public Health Warning Against Arouse-Plus
Unlike legitimate medications, Arouse-Plus was never approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use. Instead, it was marketed as a natural sexual enhancement supplement. The FDA's investigation exposed a dangerous deception, revealing that the product contained tadalafil, the active ingredient in the prescription erectile dysfunction (ED) medication, Cialis. This hidden ingredient is what the product was 'used for,' but its presence was undisclosed, making it a fraudulent and unsafe product. The FDA's action to remove Arouse-Plus from the market was crucial in protecting consumers from potentially fatal side effects.
The Dangers of Undeclared Ingredients
The most significant risk associated with Arouse-Plus was the undeclared presence of tadalafil. For men with pre-existing health conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes, who often take nitrate medications, this posed a life-threatening danger. The combination of nitrates and tadalafil can cause a drastic and unsafe drop in blood pressure.
The dangers extend beyond this specific drug interaction:
- Lack of Manufacturing Oversight: Because Arouse-Plus was an unregulated supplement, there was no guarantee of consistent dosage or purity. Batches could vary widely, leading to inconsistent and unpredictable effects.
- Misleading Claims: The product was promoted as "all natural," which deceived consumers into believing it was a safe alternative to prescription medication. This fraudulent marketing is a common tactic among illicit sexual enhancement product manufacturers.
- Untreated Underlying Conditions: Consumers self-treating sexual dysfunction with such products risked ignoring a potentially serious underlying health issue that requires a medical diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider.
Comparison of Fraudulent vs. Legitimate Treatments
This table illustrates the stark differences between the fraudulent Arouse-Plus and a legitimate, FDA-approved treatment containing tadalafil.
| Feature | Arouse-Plus (Fraudulent) | Cialis (Legitimate, FDA-Approved) |
|---|---|---|
| Approval | No (Subject of FDA public warning) | Yes (FDA-approved prescription drug) |
| Active Ingredient | Undisclosed (Found to contain tadalafil) | Tadalafil (Declared and precisely dosed) |
| Safety | Dangerous, high risk, especially with nitrates | Safe when prescribed and used under medical supervision |
| Supervision | None | Requires a doctor's prescription and monitoring |
| Marketing | Misleading "all natural" and vague claims | Truthful and regulated by law |
| Reliability | Unreliable and inconsistent dosage | Reliable efficacy and consistent dosage |
How to Identify and Avoid Health Fraud
The rise of fraudulent sexual enhancement products necessitates caution. Here are key red flags to watch for when considering such products:
- Miracle Cures or Exaggerated Claims: Be wary of products promising immediate, permanent, or "miracle" results.
- "All Natural" Deception: Many fraudulent products are deceptively labeled as natural to seem safer, despite containing hidden, potent, and dangerous synthetic drugs.
- Avoidance of Medical Professionals: Legitimate treatments require a consultation with a healthcare provider. Any product that bypasses this process should be viewed with suspicion.
- Suspicious Sourcing: The FDA warns that many of these products are sold online through unverified websites and in unregulated stores.
The Takeaway
The case of Arouse-Plus serves as a critical public health lesson about the dangers of unapproved sexual enhancement products. The product's fraudulent claim of being a supplement, while containing a potent prescription drug, put countless consumers at risk, especially those with heart conditions. For anyone experiencing sexual health issues like erectile dysfunction, the safest and most effective path is to consult a qualified healthcare professional who can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend an appropriate, FDA-approved treatment, such as prescription tadalafil or sildenafil, if necessary.
To learn more about identifying medication health fraud, visit the official FDA website for consumer information and warnings.
Conclusion
In summary, the fraudulent product Arouse-Plus contained the hidden drug tadalafil and was never approved by the FDA. Its use posed significant health risks, especially a dangerous drop in blood pressure for those on nitrate medications. Consumers seeking treatment for sexual health concerns should consult a doctor and use only safe, legally sanctioned products.
