FDA continues to warn consumers not to purchase or use Artri and Ortiga products as the agency received adverse event reports, including of liver toxicity and death, associated with the use of Artri King and similarly named products. These products are promoted with unproven claims to treat arthritis and osteoarthritis, restore cartilage, and stop joint deterioration.
FDA analysis revealed hidden drug ingredients, including corticosteroids (diclofenac and dexamethasone). Suddenly stopping corticosteroids after long-term use or high doses can result in a serious withdrawal syndrome that includes fatigue, nausea, low blood pressure, low blood glucose levels, fever, dizziness, muscle and joint pain, and shortness of breath.
Medical intervention may be necessary.
In support of public safety, and because some of these products may still be available on the market, FDA issued warning letters on October 28, 2022, to Amazon, Walmart, and Latin Foods Market for distributing various “Artri” and/or “Ortiga” unapproved and misbranded drug products. Walmart and Latin Foods Market already issued voluntary recalls for these products.
Customers with questions about these products should discuss appropriate treatment options with their health care providers.
FDA encourages health professionals and patients to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
• Complete and submit the report online. You can find the form by clicking this link: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178. You can download the form from this link: https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery
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