Warning

1997-31
May 1, 1997

Warning not to use Renewed Balance Body Cream

OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers not to use AIM Renewed Balance Body Cream. This product, manufactured in the United States, is being sold in Canada as a cosmetic although it contains the prescription drug progesterone and could pose a risk to adults who use it on a regular basis.

The manner in which the product is being promoted (indicated for numerous serious diseases) may lead individuals to abandon conventional therapies and its use by pregnant women may put the fetus at risk. The long-term safety of progesterone cream remains to be established.

While AIM Renewed Balance Body Cream has not been approved for sale in Canada, Health Canada is concerned as the cream is being imported and widely sold through multi-level marketing methods.

Health Canada is issuing this warning to advise consumers who may be using this product, the Canadian Medical Association, and the provincial Ministries of Health across Canada as a precautionary measure.

Anyone currently using AIM Renewed Balance Body Cream should stop using it and contact their doctor. The only legal means of continued access to this medication would be through the involvement of a physician and the Special Access Programme administered by Health Canada. Consumers are advised that any medication assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness and quality will carry an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN) or general public (GP) number on the label.

Media Inquiries:
Bruce Wozny
Health Canada
Pager: (613) 791-3105

Public Inquiries:
(613) 957-2991