Is Geritol good for anemia?
Geritol, a brand name for various dietary supplements, has a history dating back to the 1950s. Here is what you need to know:
History: Geritol was introduced in 1950 as an alcohol-based, iron and B vitamin tonic by Pharmaceuticals, Inc. It was primarily marketed as a cure for "iron-poor tired blood" and was later acquired by different pharmaceutical companies over the years source.
Federal Trade Commission Investigation: Geritol faced years of investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) starting in 1959. In 1965, the FTC ordered the makers of Geritol to disclose that the product would relieve tiredness only in individuals with iron deficiency anemia. The FTC found Geritol's claims to be false and misleading, resulting in heavy fines. Although subsequent trials and appeals concluded that some of the FTC demands exceeded its authority, Geritol continued to be sold until 1979 source.
Safety Concerns: Supplemental iron products, including Geritol, have been contraindicated due to concerns over conditions like hemochromatosis. Studies have raised serious questions about the use of iron supplements in certain populations, such as men, postmenopausal women, and nonanemic patients with liver disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or cancer source.
Effectiveness: Geritol was marketed as a dietary supplement containing iron and B vitamins. While it may have provided some benefits to individuals with iron deficiency anemia, its effectiveness for general health or energy improvement is not supported by scientific evidence source.
In summary, Geritol faced legal scrutiny from the FTC due to false and misleading claims. Safety concerns regarding iron supplementation and the lack of scientific evidence for its effectiveness may have contributed to its decline in popularity and eventual discontinuation.
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