Alternative medication warnings

In general, be VERY skeptical of claims that herbal or alternative therapies can replace insulin treatment in cats or dogs. Please note that many of the charlatans and scammers discussed in this article have ads appearing on the right of this page and can appear there in other pages on this wiki. At present, "Alternative Treatment #6", "Alternative Treatment #3" are among them.

In dogs

Diabetic dogs, in particular, tend to be Type-1 diabetics and must have insulin:

• Alternatives warning for dogs
• "Alternative Treatment #1"

• "Alternative Treatment #3"

• "Alternative Treatment #4"
• "Alternative Treatment #5"

• "Alternative Treatment #6"

• "Alternative Treatment #7"

These links will take you to the section of this page where the "Treatment" is discussed.

BD Diabetes--Canine Diabetes Direct Quote from the BD website: "NOTE: There is no diet or vitamin supplement that can reduce your dog's dependence on insulin injections. This is because vitamins and minerals cannot do what insulin does in the dog's body. If you believe that your dog needs a vitamin or mineral supplement, discuss it with your veterinarian first to make sure that the supplement does not interfere with the action of the dog's other medications. You will still need to give your dog insulin injections twice a day." BD Diabetes-Ask Dr. Greco From BD's Ask Dr. Greco Page--FAQ About Canine Diabetes: "Q: Are there alternatives to insulin injections? A: Not yet, but researchers are working on new therapies. Q: Are there any vitamin or mineral supplements that will reduce my dog's dependence on insulin? A: No. Dogs generally have type 1 diabetes. Their pancreas produces no insulin at all, so they need insulin injections in order to survive. Vitamins and minerals cannot replace the action of insulin. If you give your dog vitamin supplements, you still need to give it insulin injections."

There is no medically recognized treatment for canine diabetes mellitus other than insulin injections. Type-1 diabetes, which is the form it takes in the majority of dogs, is the same as Type-1 diabetes in humans. Type-1 diabetics of all species must replace the insulin their bodies no longer produce. This can only be done with insulin shots. Oral medications are designed to stimulate the pancreas into producing more insulin. This is successful with some Type-2 humans with diabetes because their pancreases produce some, but not enough insulin for their body's needs, or their bodies are unable to properly use the insulin they produce. Diabetics with Type-1 diabetes have beta cell dysfunction; this means they cannot produce insulin in response to any medicines because their pancreas is no longer able to do so. Regardless of what's said or promised, the only way Type-1 diabetics can produce their own insulin again is through pancreas or cell transplants, giving them new beta cells to do so with. While legitimate diet changes and supplemental medications can be of help in controlling diabetes, none of them can be the total answer in Type-1 diabetes. The only recognized oral medications for control of diabetes are prescription drugs, approved in the US by FDA, in Canada by Health Canada, in the EU by EMEA, and by other legitimate medication regulatory bodies throughout the world. None of these medications have been recognized as being able to control Type-1 diabetes, but are for some cases of Type-2. The only recognized continuing medical treatment for diabetes mellitus Type-1 is one of the many forms of insulin therapy-for anyone suffering from it. The amount of money and resources of pharmaceutical companies would not be directed at finding alternate, non-injectable insulin delivery methods such as Exubera (inhaled insulin) if insulin was outmoded.

In cats

Also note that although Type-2 diabetic cats sometimes can go into remission from diet and a short course of insulin, this is not accomplished in general by herbal medications, and seldom by oral medication alone. Foods and herbal medications, even those that work well in humans, may be ineffective or even poisonous in cats:

• Essential oils warning for cats

• "Alternative Treatment" #1
• "Alternative Treatment" #3

• "Alternative Treatment #5"

• "Alternative Treatment #6"

• "Alternative Treatment #7"

These links will take you directly to the sections of this page dealing with them.

Think about it

Hucksters and charlatans like these have told their lies and made their claims long before modern treatment for pet diabetes. They did so to the human sufferers of diabetes, Type-1 and Type-2; those who believed them were fortunate if they escaped with at least part of their health intact--some were not so lucky.

The smoke and mirrors are still going on for persons with diabetes. These are large and active Google newsgroups for persons with diabetes:

• Google Groups Misc. Health:Diabetes

• Google Groups Alt. Support:Diabetes

Take a few minutes to read the threads and see for yourself how many scams are posted there. And be sure to read the many, many responses of the various members to these posters--that this is not true, these are scams, and the poster should get lost.

Lurk for a while if you doubt it. Then post and ask long-time newsgroup members how many scams they've seen on the newsgroup. I guarantee you will have plenty of responses.

The scam and sham artists don't care one bit about you, about your pet, or about anyone who has diabetes--they only care about your money and how they can relieve you of it. They are in the "pet diabetes business" only because it appears profitable, just as they were and continue to be in the "human diabetes business".

Your intelligence should tell you there's a reason why what they're selling isn't approved by any legitimate medical regulation agency in this world--because it doesn't work and may also harm you or your pet.

Major pharmaceutical companies who produce insulins and oral diabetes medications would be happy to acquire rights or licenses to these products and sell them--at the same price or more than their current products. Because if they really did what their promoters say they do, they would be considered what pharmaceutical firms call "blockbuster" drugs/treatments, which would mean huge profits to them. Even with the staggering costs of having a new drug FDA-approved, something genuine of this nature would be very profitable.

And because this is true--if the substance truly and safely met all claims, why is it being sold on hole-in-the-wall websites? Why not on websites like these examples:

• Levemir-US

• Apidra-US

• Vetsulin

If what the scamsters are pitching worked, they'd have enough money to have websites like Levemir, Apidra and Vetsulin.

Here are some examples: "Alternative Treatment" #1 "Alternative Treatment" #6 "Money-back" guarantee--none regarding the possible health damage. The "satisfied customers" are apparently not satisfied enough that one can contact them for their first-hand accounts regarding the product. There is a reference to a "clinical test" and "scientific test" from an "independent lab" with absolutely no names mentioned or links to details of it. The company is based in Michigan, and a search of the Michigan State Professional Licensing Boardfor the person mentioned in the websites' "About Us" pages reveal he is a human chiropractor-not a veterinarian or human endocrinologist. The upper left hand portion of every page on one website says "Natural Medicine from Real Veterinarians", the other, "All Natural Pet Health Products". "Alternative Treatment" #2 (Website no longer exists)

Four products, one chiropractor

This expose shows how four highly-advertised diabetes "cures", three for pets, one for humans, are actually traceable to the same Michigan chiropractor. Who is, by the way, under investigation by the FDA. And claims on the pet site to be a "real veterinarian" and on the human site to be a "real doctor".

The chiropractor is doing well enough to be a member of the Michigan Chiropractic Society's Century Club. Listed under "H" on P26. Page 34 at the link says Century Club membership was $1,200.00 in 2005. Page 17 of their pdf outlines the Society's ethics.

Of interest is this:

• "A chiropractor shall assure that all advertising, promotion, and communications shall clearly identify himself or herself as a Chiropractor or his or her office as a Chiropractic facility."
• "Illegal, unethical, or incompetent conduct shall be in violation of this Code of Ethics."
• "Violation of the Code of Ethics is just cause for expulsion from MCS membership per the procedures outlined in the Michigan Chiropractic Society By-Laws."

On pages 14 & 15 of the same pdf are State of Michigan Ethics and Professional Statutes which are applicable to all health care professionals.

• Section c (prohibited acts) (ii) refers to practice outside of the scope of one's license.
• Section d (unethical business practices) (i) deals with false or misleading advertising.
• Section e (unprofessional conduct) (iii) contains a reference to promotion of unnecessary drugs, treatments, medical devices or procedures for personal gain.

"Alternative Treatment #1", "Alternative Treatment #6", and "Alternative Treatment #7" vs "Alternative Treatment #2"

Same story, possibly same stuff--just geared to different "markets".

"Alternative Treatment #1" "Natural Medicine from Real Veterinarians" "Alternative Treatment #1"-Pitch Page "Help drop your pet's blood sugar levels. Guaranteed or it's free." "More proof in XXXXXXX's ingredients." "Iron-clad guarantee:" "We guarantee that XXXXXXX will work or we'll reverse your payment like it never happened." "Your pet's health is priceless." "Compared to everything you stand to lose if you don't make a change right now, $$$$ is just a drop in the bucket. What else can you do for $$$$ that will so greatly affect the quality of your pet's life and the family that loves your pet?" "Q: How soon after starting on XXXXXXX can I expect to see results? A: Your pet will experience a noticeable blood glucose level drop within two weeks of starting on XXXXXXX. At the end of 30 days, the drop will be significant." Q: My pet doesn’t need to drop 50 points. Will XXXXXXX take my pet too low? A: XXXXXXXX's primary action is to naturally and gently heal your pet, which takes time. It does NOT artificially and instantly force blood sugar levels way lower like drugs or insulin. As your pet approaches normal levels, you will see blood sugar levels taper off. Your pet will not drop 50 points if they do not need it. Clinical tests have shown that pets with normal blood glucose levels do not experience a drop. Q: Will XXXXXXX force my pet to produce too much insulin? A: Again, XXXXXXX’s primary action is to naturally and gently heal your pet. As your pet heals, its body will regulate its own correct insulin production, as it should. It does NOT artificially and instantly force you to produce more insulin, like some drugs.

"Alternative Treatment #6" " All Natural Pet Health Products" "Alternative Treatment #6"-Pitch Page "Help to support your pet's blood sugar levels. Guaranteed or it's free." "More proof in XXXXXXX's ingredients." "Iron-clad guarantee:" "We guarantee that XXXXXXX will work or we'll reverse your payment like it never happened." "Your pet's health is priceless." "Compared to everything you stand to lose if you don't make a change right now, $$$$ is just a drop in the bucket. What else can you do for $$$$ that will so greatly affect the quality of your pet's life and the family that loves your pet?" "Q: How soon after starting on XXXXXXX can I expect to see results? A: Your pet will experience a noticeable blood glucose level drop within two weeks of starting on XXXXXXX. At the end of 30 days, the drop will be significant." Q: My pet doesn’t need to drop 50 points. Will XXXXXXX take my pet too low? A: XXXXXXXX's primary action is to naturally and gently heal your pet, which takes time. It does NOT artificially and instantly force blood sugar levels way lower like drugs or insulin. As your pet approaches normal levels, you will see blood sugar levels taper off. Your pet will not drop 50 points if they do not need it. Clinical tests have shown that pets with normal blood glucose levels do not experience a drop. Q: Will XXXXXXX force my pet to produce too much insulin? A: Again, XXXXXXX’s primary action is to naturally and gently heal your pet. As your pet heals, its body will regulate its own correct insulin production, as it should. It does NOT artificially and instantly force you to produce more insulin, like some drugs.

"Alternative Treatment #7" "The Perfect Balance of Science and Nature" "Alternative Treatment #7" (No longer exisits)

"Alternative Treatment #2" "Alternative Medicine from Real Doctors" ["Alternative Treatment #2"-Pitch Page (Not pet-related) "50 points in 30 days or it's free." "More proof is in the ingredients." "Our promise to you:" "We guarantee you'll be absolutely thrilled or we'll reverse your payment like it never happened." "Your health is priceless." "Compared to everything you stand to lose if you don't make a change right now, $$$$ is just a drop in the bucket. What else can you do for $$$$ that will so greatly affect the quality of your life, your career, your family, and your home?" "Q: How soon after starting on YYYYYYY can I expect to see results? A: You will experience a noticeable blood glucose level drop within two weeks of starting on YYYYYYY. At the end of 30 days, the drop will be significant." Q: I don’t need to drop 50 points. Will YYYYYYY take me too low? A: YYYYYYY's primary action is to naturally and gently heal you, which takes time. It does NOT artificially and instantly force your blood sugar levels way lower like drugs or insulin. As you approach normal levels, you will see your blood sugar levels taper off. You will not drop 50 points if you do not need it. Clinical trials have shown that individuals with normal blood glucose levels do not experience a drop. Q: Will YYYYYYY force me to produce too much insulin? A: Again, YYYYYYY’s primary action is to naturally and gently heal you. As you heal, your body will regulate its own correct insulin production, as it should. It does NOT artificially and instantly force you to produce more insulin like some drugs.

Same stock copy on all four sites--only altered slightly to fit the group the pitch is aimed at. And all from the same Michigan Chiropractor. The "Alternative Treatment #6" and "Alternative Treatment #7" show stock photos of a medication assembly line, along with the following copy, inferring that "Alternative Treatment #6" is produced under the aegis of the US Food And Drug Administration--"XXXXX manufactures every product that we sell in our own state of the art facility under the strict guidelines of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Good Manufacturing Practices, or G.M.P." The same inference is on the "Alternative Treatment #7" website--"Every product manufactured for ZZZZZZ is done so in an FDA approved facility under "Good Manufacturing Practices" guidelines. Regardless of what's claimed, it doesn't change the fact that this is an unapproved drug, just as the others produced by this pathetic man are. Changing names and labels are attempt to hide the truth and from the FDA. This claim, "Our products are scientifically formulated and manufactured using the best practices available and meet with current FDA standards." conveniently omits that they are all unapproved drugs.

"FDA Required Legal Disclaimer - These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease." is found at the bottom of "Alternative Treatment #6's" page. But the page for the product claims to treat diabetes!

"Alternative Treatment #7"--The Only Truth Is They Want Your Money

"Alternative Treatment #7's" website no longer exists

"Alternative Treatment #1", "Alternative Treatment #6", "Alternative Treatment #7" & "Alternative Treatment #2"--Who's Behind Them All?

The answer is the same name revealed in the "Alternative Treatment #1" website--the human chiropractor. Doing a Google search on the substance's name when sold for human use as "Alternative Treatment #2", eventually turns up a website hawking it which gives the name of its producer. Doing a WhoIs for the domain, one sees that the true owner has seen fit to hide his/her name by using a proxy domain service. "Alternative Treatment #6's" domain is registered to a shill in Grand Rapids, MI--not the person shown here. The name of the person the "Alternative Treatment #6" domain is registered to is shown here, in an internet archived page as the company's Director for International Sales. A check of the registrations of "Alternative Treatment #1","Alternative Treatment #7", and the main business site of the chiropractor show that all but "Alternative Treatment #6" have their "owners" hidden by a proxy service. Going to the domain's home page [1] and having a look around produces some interesting results. A press release, dated May 26, 2006 regarding a company lawsuit, turns up the CEO's name--the same one as shown on the "Alternative Treatment #1" website.

The company has had many different addresses in a little more than a year:

• the one shown on their website[2],where the story is now "Alternative Medicine from Real Doctors" (at "Alternative Treatment #1"'s website, it's "Natural Medicine From Real Veterinarians" and at "Alternative Treatment #6's it's "All Natural Pet Health Products")

• the one shown here in Yahoo local [3]

• the one shown in the FDA Warning Letter dated August 16, 2005, which lists the product under its former human name. (It begins with "Dia"--just as both current human and pet versions do.) The FDA letter states the product is not found to be safe or effective for the condition of diabetes.

• the one on "Alternative Treatment #6's" website.

• the one on "Alternative Treatment #7's" website, where the NV telephone number is identical to that of the main corporation of the MI Chiropractor.

From MI To NV--With Identical Buildings

Looking at the "company" page for this business, their address has once again been changed--this time it's moved to Las Vegas, NV. But the stock photo of the building shown is the identical one as when the company claimed to be headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI! It hasn't been sold--the CEO shown here is still the same, and as you can see, he is practicing in Grand Rapids, MI.

Buildings don't move from MI to NV and the odds of identical buildings in two different states are astronomical. The lies just keep changing--to sell products which are not approved nor effective. It appears that the "change of address" from MI to NV would be to that of a mail drop or mail forwarding service--to keep trying to cover up where the CEO, formulator, and producer of these products really is.

This is the current Yellow Pages listing for the company. The NV address and telephone number on the website are a ruse; Yellow Pages shows ZERO for this company in NV.

The website of "Alternative Treatment #6" was inviting people to a pet expo in Grand Rapids, along with the claim that it is your "online veterinarian and pet health resource." Quite a claim from a human chiropractor who has nerve enough to have a diabetes help page with links to the American Diabetes Association and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists on his "Alternative Treatment #6" website, and uses "No False Promises. Just Results" as his new motto.

Why not start here, at the "About Us" page for "Alternative Treatment #7" where he again tries to make people believe he is a veterinarian-"ZZZZZ was founded by a group of veterinarians and Scientific Formulators who had a vision."

You can see his MI license as a human chiropractor here and his rating as one at this link. You also see that the telephone number given on the "Alternative Treatment #7" website matches that of his main company which has somehow "flown" to NV.

You can also see, with a visit to "Alternative Treatment #7's" website that the product is a "New Breakthrough in Veterinarian Science" (it's Veterinary Medicine, folks) and that "Animal Trainers", who are not to be treating animals any more than are human chiropractors, find it the "New Golden Standard"--Gold Standard is the proper term.

And now you can also see there are more ways to hide. Visiting the "About Us" page for "Alternative Treatment #7, one is offered a link to this new company name, where the address is an exact match to the new one for the chiropractor's main business.

FDA's letter states that dietary supplements may be legally marketed with truthful and non-misleading claims. The letter goes on to say that once a dietary supplement makes claims regarding preventing, mitigating, treating or curing a disease (as all of these do), it makes the product legally considered to be a drug, which would require FDA approval to be sold.

From here [4], "professionals" can enter into an agreement to sell the products in their "practices". This link [5] is for retailers, and the reason why one sees the product under its human name sold on Amazon.com, on eBay, and countless "get rich quick" hole in the wall websites.

This "retailer", AKA "Alternative Treatment #2" of the human product received an FDA Warning Letter October 19,2006, regarding the lack of safety and efficacy of the substance as well as the website claims made about it.

Same person behind all products, same stock claims as shown above--pitching three to pet owners and another to persons with diabetes.

The "Alternative Treatment #7" website purports to offer free telephone consultations with "a health specialist" for all of its "products".

"Alternative Treatment #1", "Alternative Treatment #6","Alternative Treatment #7", "Arthritis Treatment #1, #2, #3 & "Skin Disorder Treatment #1,#2, #3"--How Can the Same Product "Cure" All Three Problems?

Looking further at the "Alternative Treatment #1" and "Alternative Treatment #6"websites, you will see that the human chiropractor, claims to be the formulator of "Alternative Treatment" #1, "Alternative Treatment #6","Arthritis Treatment #1","Arthritis Treatment #2", "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" and "Skin Disorder Treatment #2. He also has had nerve enough to call "Arthritis Treatment #2 a "Hip Displasia Treatment" as well. The "Arthritis Treatment #1" and "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" pages state that they, too are "Natural Medicine From Real Veterinarians". Michigan State Professional Licensing Board has no veterinary license on record for this person.

Let's put these three products to a comparison-

"Alternative Treatment #1" "Natural Medicine from Real Veterinarians" "Alternative Treatment #6" "All Natural Pet Health Products"' "Alternative Treatment #7" "The Perfect Balance of Science and Nature" "Alternative Treatment #1"-Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Alternative Treatment #1" ""Alternative Treatment #1", along with a healthy lifestyle, has been shown in clinical tests to be 99% effective for Type 2 diabetes." "Alternative Treatment #6"-Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Alternative Treatment #6" ""Alternative Treatment #6", along with a healthy lifestyle, has been shown in clinical tests to be 99% effective for Type 2 diabetes." "Alternative Treatment #7-Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Alternative Treatment #7" ""Alternative Treatment #7" is the ONLY natural solution that reverses animal diabetes quickly and completely, ONCE AND FOR ALL!" "Drop your pet's blood sugar 30 Points in 30 days." "Enhances cell repair: "Alternative Treatment #1" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms." "Enhances cell repair: "Alternative Treatment #6" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms." "Increases Nutrient Absorption: "Alternative Treatment #1" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form, as nature intends. "Alternative Treatment #1's" organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. Ultimately this has an effect on the entire body, for better health." "Increases Nutrient Absorption: "Alternative Treatment #6" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form, as nature intends. "Alternative Treatment #1's" organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. Ultimately this has an effect on the entire body, for better health." "Directly Detoxifies the Body: "Alternative Treatment #1" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Alternative Treatment #1" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxins. This allows the body to completely eliminate all waste materials. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell." "Directly Detoxifies the Body: "Alternative Treatment #6" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Alternative Treatment #6" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxins. This allows the body to completely eliminate all waste materials. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell." "More Proof in "Alternative Treatment #1's" ingredients:" "More Proof in "Alternative Treatment #6's ingredients:" "More Prood is in"Alternative Treatment #7's ingredients: They are the same as in "Arthritis Treatment #1", "Arthritis Treatment #2","Arthritis Treatment #3", "Skin Disorder Treatment #1", "Skin Disorder Treatment #2, and"Skin Disorder Treatment #3". Image of "Alternative Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #6's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #7's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment's #1's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #2's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #3's bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment's" bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #2's bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #3's bottle.

"Arthritis Treatment #1" "Natural Medicine from Real Veterinarians" "Arthritis Treatment #2" "All Natural Pet Health Products" "Arthritis Treatment #3" "The Perfect Balance of Science and Nature" "Arthritis Treatment #1" Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Arthritis Treatment #1" ""Arthritis Treatment #1" has been clinically proven to be 99% effective in reversing pet arthritis." "98.9% said they saw "Arthritis Treatment #1" to be effective in reversing their pet's arthritis and joint damage!" "Arthritis Treatment #2" Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Arthritis Treatment #2" ""Arthritis Treatment #2" has been clinically proven to be 99% effective in reversing pet arthritis." "98.9% said they saw "Arthritis Treatment #2" to be effective in reversing their pet's arthritis and joint damage!" "Arthritis Treatment #3" Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Arthritis Treatment #3" "Enhances cell repair to joints and surrounding tissue: "Arthritis Treatment #1" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms. This ultimately has a positive effect on regenerating joint and tissue repair." "Enhances cell repair to joints and surrounding tissue: "Arthritis Treatment #2" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms. This ultimately has a positive effect on regenerating joint and tissue repair." "Boosts cell repair to joints and surrounding tissue: "Arthritis Treatment #3" increases the availability of nutrients and makes them easier to absorb into the body. This ultimately has a positive effect on regenerating joint and tissue repair." "Increases Nutrient Absorption: "Arthritis Treatment #1" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form as nature intends. "Arthritis Treatment #1's" organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. More nutrients means more nutrients at the source of the problem." "Increases Nutrient Absorption: "Arthritis Treatment #2" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form as nature intends. "Arthritis Treatment #2's" organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. More nutrients means more nutrients at the source of the problem." "Directly Detoxifies the Body:" "Arthritis Treatment #1" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Arthritis Treatment" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxic pollutants. This allows the body to completely eliminate all pollutants. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell. All detoxified cells around the arthritic area are able to help repair the arthritic damage." "Directly Detoxifies the Body:" "Arthritis Treatment #2" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Arthritis Treatment" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxic pollutants. This allows the body to completely eliminate all pollutants. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell. All detoxified cells around the arthritic area are able to help repair the arthritic damage." "Eliminates Toxins From the Body:" "Arthritis Treatment #3" promotes cell detoxification. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers, even indoor animals are vulnerable. The properties in Projointin™ adhere to the pollutants, which catalyzes their breakdown. This allows the body to completely eliminate all toxins. All detoxified cells around the joint area are able to help repair the joint damage." What Is "Arthritis Treatment #1", "Arthritis Treatment #2"and "Arthritis Treatment #3 Answer--"Alternative Treatment #1", "Alternative Treatment #6","Alternative Treatment #7", "Skin Disorder Treatment #1","Skin Disorder Treatment #2and "Skin Disorder Treatment #3" with different names and slightly different pitches. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #2's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #3's bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #6's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #7's" bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #2's bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #3's bottle.

"Skin Disorder Treatment #1" "Natural Medicine from Real Veterinarians" "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" " All Natural Pet Health Products" "Skin Disorder Treatment #3" "The Perfect Balance of Science and Nature" "Skin Disorder Treatment #1"-Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" "Skin Disorder Treatment" has been clinically proven to be 99% effective in reversing pet skin conditions." "96.5% said they saw "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" to be effective in reversing their pet's ARTHRITIS AND JOINT DAMAGE! Yes, that is what's on the "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" page--look at the link to see for yourself-"Proof "Skin Disorder Treatment" Works. "Skin Disorder Treatment #2"-Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" "Skin Disorder Treatment" has been clinically proven to be 99% effective in reversing pet skin conditions." "96.5% said they saw "Skin Disorder Treatment #2"also improved their pet's signs and symptoms of pain and stiffness. Yes, this is what on the "Skin Disorder #2" page--look at the link. "Skin Disorder Treatment #3" Pitch Page "The Natural Solution is "Skin Disorder Treatment #3" "Enhances skin cell repair: "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms. This ultimately has a positive effect on regenerating skin tissue." "Enhances skin cell repair: "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" enhances the availability of nutrients and makes them more readily absorbable. It allows nutrients to interact with one another, breaking them down into the simplest ionic forms. This ultimately has a positive effect on regenerating skin tissue." Enhances Skin Cell regeneration: "Skin Disorder #3" increases the availability and ease of absorption of nutrients.Ultimately, this has a positive effect on the regeneration of skin tissue." "Increases Nutrient Absorption "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form as nature intends. "Skin Disorder Treatment"'s organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. More nutrients mean more nutrients at the source of the problem. "Increases Nutrient Absorption "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" increases absorption throughout the entire body. Upon ingestion, animals easily absorb these nutrients. Due to the fact that they are in the perfect natural plant form as nature intends. "Skin Disorder Treatment"'s organic complex is of a low molecular weight and because of this they are also of low molecular size. They are capable of a high degree of penetration into the cells, making them very effective. More nutrients mean more nutrients at the source of the problem. "Directly Detoxifies the Body "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Skin Disorder Treatment #1" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxic pollutants. This allows the body to completely eliminate all pollutants. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell. All detoxified cells around the skin aliment area are able to help repair any damage. "Directly Detoxifies the Body "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" promotes cell detoxification. Most disease is associated with a toxic body. Pets are highly susceptible, being exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" bind with the pollutants, which catalyzes the breakdown of these toxic pollutants. This allows the body to completely eliminate all pollutants. A detoxified cell is a healthy cell. All detoxified cells around the skin aliment area are able to help repair any damage. "Eliminates Toxins From The Body" "Skin Disorder #3" promotes cell detoxification. Pets, even indoor animals are vulnerable and exposed to pesticides and fertilizers. The properties in "Skin Disorder #3" adhere to the pollutants, to catalyze their breakdown. This allows the body to completely eliminate all toxins. The detoxified cells around the afflicted area will repair the affected cells. "What is "Skin Disorder Treatment #1","Skin Disorder Treatment #2" and "Skin Disorder #3" Answer--"Alternative Treatment #1""Alternative Treatment #6", "Alternative Treatment #7","Arthritis Treatment #1", "Arthritis Treatment #2 and "Arthritis Treatment #3" with different names and slightly different pitches. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #2's bottle. Image of "Skin Disorder Treatment #3's bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #6's" bottle. Image of "Alternative Treatment #7's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #1's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #2's" bottle. Image of "Arthritis Treatment #3's bottle.

"Skin Disorder Treatment #1""Proof "Skin Disorder Treatment" Works". "Skin Disorder Treatment #2""Proof "Skin Disorder Treatment #2" Works". "Arthritis Treatment #1""Proof "Arthritis Treatment #1" Works". "Arthritis Treatment #2"Proof "Arthritis Treatment #2" Works,"

Another Case of Pets & People

This is another case where the human product is "transformed" into one for canine and feline diabetes--with a change of a label and small copy changes. As above, the same company is behind all three of these "treatments".

"Alternative Treatment #3" vs FDA Warning Letter-9/27/05

"Alternative Treatment #3"

• "Alternative Treatment" #3

This one is now aimed at cats and dogs with diabetes. Here the "Clinical Trials" page is full of links, all of them sourced through the product website and all dealing with various possibilities for human, not feline or canine diabetes. There are many "studies" which purport to show why this product works, but not one of them deals directly with diabetes in cats and dogs--yet you are expected to believe what's said here and hurry to order. Note here that everyone's willing to tell you where to send your check if you choose not to use your credit card. So now we have a company name & address. Doing a Google Search on the company name and state it does business in turns up this most interesting reference from US-FDA:

FDA Warning Letter September 27, 2005 The same person's name shown on the FDA warning letter above is prominently displayed on "Alternative Treatment #3's" website: "Alternative Remedy #3--Same Person's Name as on FDA Warning Letter Note that this is for claims regarding products sold to humans, claiming to treat diabetes and neuropathy. Note that the name of the products FDA sent the person the warning letter regarding and the name of the product on "Alternative Treatment #3's" website are VERY similar. FDA includes a summary of the claims made on the website--sound familiar?

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Cats: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Feline diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it simply gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for cats with diabetes!"

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Dogs: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Canine diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for dogs with diabetes."

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Dogs and Cats: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Diabetes in your pet is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for pets with diabetes."

"FDA Warning Letter--9/27/05" FDA Warning Letter-Page 1 "an average drop of blood glucose levels of 31.9%" "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it simply gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for diabetics!"

As you can see, the website is hawking the same product for canine and feline diabetes as it was to people with diabetes in 2005, when the FDA Warning Letter was written.

• FDA pdf-Page 1:

"The therapeutic claims on your web site establish that the products are drugs because they are intended for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevension of disease. The marketing of these products violates the Act". (Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act)

So you see that according to US law, anything claiming to do these sorts of things, no matter what disease and what species, is considered a drug.

• FDA pdf-Page 2:

"Your website contains disease claims in the form of testimonials, including:"

All three of the "Alternative Treatment" websites linked here do the same.

"In addition, the name of your product suggests that it is intended for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevension of diabetes, a disease."

"In addition, the name of your product suggests that it is intended for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment or prevension of neuropathy, a disease."

The names of "Alternative Treatments" #1 & #3 linked here do the same; you see the admission at "Alternative Treatment" #2's website that their product name had to be changed because of FDA. "Alternative Treatment" #2 did receive a warning letter August 16, 2005-Pages 1 & 2 very much like this one, prompting a change in the name--nothing changed about the treatment not helping diabetes.

• FDA pdf-Page 3:

"Furthermore, your products are not generally recognized as being safe and effective for the above referenced conditions and therefore, the products are also "new drugs" under section 201(p) of the Act (Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act-21 U. S. C. 321(p)). New drugs may not be legally marketed in the US without prior approval from FDA as described in section 505(a)of the Act (Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act-21 U. S. C. 355(a)). FDA approves a new drug on the basis of scientific data submitted by a drug sponsor to demonstrate that the drug is safe and effective."

"Alternative Treatment #4" vs "Alternative Treatment #3" and FDA Warning Letter-9/27/05

"Alternative Treatment #4" This is aimed at canine diabetes, from the same huckster who brought you "Alternative Treatment" #3and was the recipient of  FDA Warning Letter September 27, 2005 for the company's similar claims to people with diabetes.

Let's Compare "Alternative Treatment #4" with "Alternative Treatment #3" and the FDA Warning Letter from 2005:

"Alternative Treatment #4" "Alternative Treatment #4" "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Reduce or Eliminate the Need for Injections or Drugs" (This shows you just how much the company knows about canine diabetes.) "Diabetes in your dog is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for dogs with diabetes."

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Cats: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Feline diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it simply gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for cats with diabetes!"

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Dogs: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Canine diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for dogs with diabetes."

"Alternative Treatment #3" For Dogs and Cats: "Studies show a 31.9% drop in blood sugar levels." "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Diabetes in your pet is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for pets with diabetes."

"FDA Warning Letter--9/27/05" FDA Warning Letter-Page 1 "an average drop of blood glucose levels of 31.9%" "Lower Blood Glucose Levels" "Less Dependency on Medications" "Diabetes is a disease that if you don't take effective action against, it simply gets worse." "Unfortunately, medications only treat the symptoms and usually do nothing to address the underlying causes. The good news is that cutting-edge science and nutrition have come together to create a truly monumental and natural breakthrough for diabetics!"

"Clinical Trials" Page for "Alternative Treatment #4"

"Clinical Trials" Page for "Alternative Treatment #3"

The links on both pages are identical; the only difference is in their URLs, where one is geared to take advantage of those treating feline diabetes and the other is geared to take advantage of those treating canine diabetes. The product being sold here-

• for people FDA Warning Letter-Page 1

• for cats and dogs"Alternative Treatment #3" website

• and for dogs "Clinical Trials" Page for "Alternative Treatment #4" is the same as well--for all three.

As the FDA Warning Letter points out, the product was not proven to be safe and effective in treating diabetes--not in people--not in cats--and not in dogs.

As suggested above, making a comparison of these two web links along with an open window with the FDA Warning Letter September 27, 2005 should convince you that something's not right about this product.

More Players--"Alternative Treatment #5" & "Alternative Treatment #8"

Again, the human diabetes scams and the pet ones are closely linked. "Alternative Treatment #5", code name PA/GB is aimed at both canine and feline diabetes. "Alternative Treatment #8", code name IP, is pitched to humans. This time it's a clinical psychologist and homeopath trying to treat canine, feline and human diabetes.

"Alternative Treatment #5" vs "Alternative treatment #8"

"Alternative Treatment #5" "Alternative Treatment #5"'s webpage: "There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies and dietary supplements can help to both prevent diabetes and to keep it under control in animals who have already developed it." "How long until I see results?" "Degree and speed of improvement differs from animal to animal, depending on many factors. With regular use, you should begin to notice a general improvement in health within 3 - 6 weeks - as well as a reduction in diabetes related conditions." "Along with the correct lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and dietary supplements can reduce or eliminate the need for prescription medication and can also aid in preventing some of the tissue and organ damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar levels." "Caution: Safety during pregnancy and nursing has not yet been established." It is also not established that the product is safe to ingest at all, nor will it be because those selling it are making money without their product being FDA-approved as a drug. "Remember that diabetes is best treated holistically, with medication, diet and lifestyle factors all receiving equal attention."		"Alternative Treatment #8" "Alternative Treatment #8"'s webpage "There is a great deal of evidence to suggest that the use of carefully chosen herbal remedies and dietary supplements can help to both prevent diabetes and to keep it under control in those who have already developed it." "How soon can I expect results?" "Individual response to HUMAN PRODUCT will differ based on lifestyle and dietary factors, but benefits should be noted within 3 - 6 weeks. "Along with the correct lifestyle changes, herbal remedies and dietary supplements can reduce or eliminate the need for prescription medication and can also aid in preventing some of the tissue and organ damage associated with uncontrolled blood sugar levels." "Caution: Safety in pregnancy has not yet been established." And safety for either of these products across the board will never be established--because they are unapproved drugs.

Interesting to note that this claim is made on the GB page but not on the IP one. If the pancreatic beta cells are permanently damaged to the point where they are not capable of producing insulin, the result is insulin-dependent diabetes in all living species. As the name implies, the only treatment for this condition is exogenous insulin injections. Perhaps it's thought that because this is to be given to animals, there are no FDA regulations in place regarding veterinary drugs, or possibly that persons dealing with non-human diabetes are not as well-informed as their human-caregiving counterparts.

Here are some real gems from the IP page:

"Like all COMPANY'S products, it is developed with care by our practicing Clinical Psychologist, is 100% natural and is manufactured according to the highest pharmaceutical standards." This should set off the warning lights because psychologists deal with the workings of the mind. They do not attend medical school. Psychiatrists must attend medical school before they are allowed to enter psychiatric special training; they are permitted to prescribe medications, just as other MD's do. So those people who want to use the human version of the product are having a behavioral specialist determine how to control/cure diabetes. Since the company says all of their products are developed by a psychologist, that means the GB concoction was too. Where's the clinical psychologist? Look here--on the pet remedies home page and in the banner here-"the psychologist's natural choice". This is the page where people can become "affiliates" to sell this stuff to others. The page says one can make money from two product lines--the human IP and the animal GB one. The homeopath quoted on the pet remedies home page owns a homeopathic products manufacturing company and apparently has an interesting professional life. This South African website talks about what the local folks came up with in 2004. The product website is here and the item is about as far from diabetes as one can get.

• "Will HUMAN PRODUCT help to treat diabetes or pre-diabetic conditions?

According to FDA regulations, the manufacturers of natural remedies and dietary supplements may not make any claim which suggests that their products are to be used to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose a disease, including diabetes. The ingredients in HUMAN PRODUCT have been chosen for their positive effect on liver and pancreatic health and to promote healthy insulin levels in the body. Remember that it is also important to make sure that you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle."

None of the above impressed FDA, as they sent the company a FDA Warning Letter-October 12, 2006, with regard to IP and other products. FDA's objections to this product are the same as to those mentioned above--they are not proven to be safe and effective and are classified as unapproved drugs.

What you can do to help

These are all "double pronged" scams where the pitches are made for both people and pets with diabetes. You can help to stop things like this for only a few moments of your time:

• US-FDA Reporting Unlawful Sales of Medical Products on the Internet

As you see, there's an online form and you do NOT need to provide your name or contact information unless you want a reply. Reports can also be made via plain e-mail, using webcomplaints@ora.fda.gov. Report anything like this you see, and keep reporting it until something is done about the website; the more reports received on a particular website, the faster something will be done about it.

Thomas Tusseronce said that a fool and his money are soon parted; it's bad enough when this happens to someone, but absolutely without conscience when they also lose health or life itself--theirs or that of a loved one. If you are reading this, you are smarter than the con artists!

Update

FTC and FDA Act Against Internet Vendors of Fraudulent Diabetes Cures and Treatments-October 19, 2006

List of Firms Receiving Warning Letters for Marketing Unproven Dietary Supplements for Diabetes with Illegal Drug Claims-US-FDA-October 19, 2006

US-FDA Warning Letter October 19, 2006
The purveyor of "Alternative Treatment #3", "Alternative Treatment #4" and recipient of the FDA Warning Letter linked above, dated September 27, 2005, gets yet another one.

Diabetes.Blog.com-November 6, 2006 More Scammers Who Should Rot...
Bill the diabetes doc is a real MD and his blog is a companion to Diabetes Monitor. This blog entry refers to the exposé above of Alternative Treatments #1 and #2.

Further Reading

• US-FDA-Regulations on Statements Made for Dietary Supplements Concerning the Effect of the Product on the Structure or Function of the Body
• Article from Sydney Morning Herald on miracle diabetes cures
• Quackwatch on Diabetes cures
• Diabetes Monitor on Quackery
• FDA Warning Letter June 26, 2006-"Alternative Treatment"
• FDA Warning Letter June 12, 2006-"Alternative Treatment"
• FDA Warning Letter October 6, 2005-"Alternative Treatment"