A Missouri chiropractor is the first person to be charged with violating the COVID-19 Consumer Protection Act, says Medscape.com.
Eric Nepute is charged with 10 counts of making false marketing claims related to Covid-19, according to the report.
Nepute reportedly advertised his company’s vitamin D and zinc products on social media and the internet as drugs that could treat or prevent Covid-19.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) complaint says Nepute claims his products are more effective than the available Covid-19 vaccines.
It is unclear how the FTC would know whether the products Neptune promotes is more or less effective at treating or preventing Covid-19 than vaccines. There are ongoing studies looking at the potential benefits of vitamins and various therapeutics when it comes to Covid-19.
[T]he defendants’ claims that their products can stand in for approved Covid-19 vaccines are particularly troubling: we need to be doing everything we can to stop bogus health claims that endanger consumers.
Acting FTC Chairwoman Rebecca Kelly Slaughter
The FTC is reportedly seeking to fine Nepute and his company up to $43,792 for each violation of the Covid-19 Consumer Protection Act.
I feel that I have not done anything wrong. I encourage everyone to live a healthy lifestyle during this unprecedented time. My attorneys are reviewing the complaint and I have no further comments at this time.
Eric Nepute
https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/949696?src=wnl_edit_tpal&uac=298618HK&impID=3327863&faf=1
