The FDA accused 17 nutritional supplement companies of illegally marketing more than 58 products with claims that they can prevent, treat or cure serious diseases.
On Monday, the FDA sent 12 warning letters and five online advisory letters to the companies, saying that the products have not been reviewed by the agency and are not proven safe and effective to treat the diseases and health conditions they claim to treat.
The companies have 15 business days to explain how they will correct the alleged improper marketing.
"Simply put, health fraud scams prey on vulnerable populations, waste money and often delay proper medical care – and we will continue to take action to protect patients and caregivers from misleading, unproven products," said FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, MD.
In addition to the crackdown on dietary supplement makers, the agency will begin updating its oversight of the dietary supplement industry.