Internet marketing of dietary supplements for improving memory and cognitive abilities

Background

The use of the internet for researching and purchasing dietary supplements (DS) is rapidly increasing, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic influenced people to seek information related to health problems online. However, internet marketing is not subject to strict controls and can potentially mislead consumers.

Methods

The study assessed information obtained through internet search on websites for online sale of 75 DS intended for cognitive improvement and prevention of cognitive degeneration.

Results

The analysis revealed a wide array of active substances (126), most often three or more being present in one DS (61.3%). Data on auxiliary substances were present in 74.3% of DS, with 92.7% of DS specifying usage instructions. However, information on references (10.7%), mechanism of action (50.7%), pharmacological (9.3%) and toxicological (5.3%) effects, as well as presence or absence of allergens (21.3%), were considerably less represented. Warnings were not provided in 41.3% of DS, while 77.3% had some information on potential adverse/side effects. Claims, as the primary drivers of supplement promotion, were present in all assessed DS, but in case of USA products were not always followed by FDA disclaimer (8.2%), while in case of EU products, as many as 90.9% had at least one unapproved claim.

Conclusion

Stricter regulations for advertising and selling DS are necessary, along with harmonization among countries, as the internet is a global space that transcends national borders and laws. There is a necessity to enhance inspection oversight and a need for public education on recognizing secure and verified information on the internet.