Reviews and Information for CVS
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CL Answer
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): How can I avoid PFAS in dental floss, food, water, and other products?
Some brands of dental floss, including Oral-B Glide, may contain potentially toxic chemicals known as PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances). Get the details, and learn which floss and pick products are our Top Picks.
CL Answer
Which sunscreens and after-sun products are contaminated with benzene and which are not?
Over 200 sunscreens and after-sun products have been reported to be contaminated with benzene, a carcinogen. See the results, by brand, and find out what to look for, and what to avoid, when choosing a sunscreen or after-sun product.
CL Answer
What is the best sunscreen based on safety and efficacy?
We’ve boiled down the latest research about mineral and chemical sunscreens, including product tests, to help you choose the best sunscreen (which will depend on whether you expect to be in or out of the water). We also list popular sunscreens that have, or have not, been found to contain cancer-causing compounds (benzene and benzophenone).
Product Review
Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Review (for Weight Loss)
Choose the Best Green Coffee Bean Extract. 50% of Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Don't Deliver Expected Ingredients.
Product Review
Lactose Intolerance Products Review (Lactase Enzyme Supplements and Lactose-Free Milks)
Choose the Best Lactase Enzyme Supplement and Lactose-Free Milk. Find a CL Approved Lactose Intolerance Product.
Product Review
Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review
Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies
Product Review
L-Lysine Supplements Review
Read L-Lysine Labels Carefully. Some Can Fool You.
Product Review
Milk Thistle Supplements Review
Find the Best Milk Thistle Supplement. Tests and Reviews of Popular Milk Thistle Supplements & CL's Top Picks.
Product Review
Toprol XL vs. Generic Metoprolol Succinate Extended-release (ER) Tablets Review Article
Choose the Best Blood Pressure Medication. Find Out Why Some Generic Blood Pressure Medications Are Not the Same as the Original & May Increase Blood Pressure or Have Other Disturbing Side Effects.
Product Review
Ginger Supplements, Chews & Spices Review
Tests Reveal Best and Worst Ginger Supplements & Spices. Poor Quality and Lead Contamination Discovered in Some Products.
Product Review
Potassium Supplements Review
Be Careful with Potassium Supplements! Problems Found. Tests and Reviews of Potassium Supplements & CL's Top Picks.
Clinical Update
4/16/2024
Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil
A member asked why CVS has stopped selling its Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil. We asked CVS, which gave no good reason, but we suspect that the product may have been considered an "unapproved" medication due to its similarity to prescription fish oil. But good options remain: See our Top Pick for highly concentrated fish oil in our Omega-3 Supplements Review.
Product Review
Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Flaxseed Oil, and Hemp Oil Supplements Review: Sources of ALA and GLA (Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acids)
Choose the Best Seed Oil Supplements. Find Out Which Flaxseed and Other Seed Oil Supplements Passed Our Tests.
CL Answer
At-Home COVID Tests: How They Compare and What You Need to Know
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Tests: Where to get COVID-19 tests, including information about free testing, home testing and more. Information about SARS-CoV-2 virus tests, antibody tests and FDA authorized tests.
CL Answer
Where to Safely Buy Real Vitamins and Supplements Online, Not Fakes or Counterfeits
ConsumerLab explains how to avoid counterfeit vitamins and supplements when shopping online on Amazon, Walmart.com, and other sites. Learn to identify authorized sites and sellers and avoid fake supplements. Use the brand-by-brand guide to protect yourself from risk.
Recalls & Warnings
July 18, 2022
CVS, Target, Walgreens, and Other Oral Magnesium Citrate Laxatives Recalled Due to Bacterial Contamination
On July 14, 2022, Magnesium Citrate Laxative Oral Solution Lemon Flavor products manufactured by Vi-Jon, LLC and sold under various store brand names were recalled after testing identified the presence of the bacteria Gluconacetobacter liquefaciens.
Clinical Update
5/09/2023
At-Home COVID Test Recalled
Certain lots of a popular at-home COVID test sold by CVS and Amazon has been recalled due to bacterial contamination. Get the details in our article about testing for coronavirus.
CL Answer
Which ingredients should toothpastes and other dental products contain, and which should be avoided?
Learn about ingredients you want in your toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and which ingredients you may want to avoid.
News Release
February 25, 2024
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2024 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2024 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on over 10,000 responses collected in November/December 2023.
CL Answer
Which is the best mask to prevent COVID-19 and how do cloth, disposable, N95, and KN95 masks compare? How can I stop glasses from fogging?
See our Top Picks for masks. Learn how to make COVID-19 masks from materials at home that can be almost as effective as surgical mask and N-95 masks.
Recalls & Warnings
September 14, 2023
FDA Warns CVS, Walgreens, Similasan & Others for Eye Drop Violations
On September 11, 2023, the FDA issued Warning Letters to the following eight sellers of homeopathic and other types of eye drops regarding the products noted in italics due to a variety of violations of FDA regulations, most notably that they were marked with claims suggesting that they could cure, ...
CL Answer
Where to Safely Buy Real Water Filters Online, Not Fakes or Counterfeits
ConsumerLab explains how to avoid counterfeit water filters when shopping online on Amazon, Walmart.com, and other sites. Learn to identify authorized sites and sellers and avoid fake filters. Use the brand-by-brand guide to protect yourself from risk.
News Release
August 31, 2023
Some L-Lysine Supplement Labels May Be Misleading, According to ConsumerLab Tests
White Plains, New York, August 31, 2023 — Lysine (L-lysine) supplements may help prevent cold sores, genital herpes lesions, and canker sores, and are also promoted to slow hair loss, and treat herpes infections in cats.
News Release
May 25, 2023
Best and Worst Multivitamins According to ConsumerLab – Nearly 30% Fail Testing
White Plains, New York, May 25, 2023 — Recent ConsumerLab tests revealed problems with nearly 30% of the popular multivitamin and multimineral supplements selected for testing. Gummy vitamins were particularly likely to have issues.
News Release
February 25, 2023
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2023 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2023 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 8,600 responses collected in November/December 2022.
News Release
June 14, 2022
Best B Complexes, B12, and Other B Vitamin Supplements Revealed by ConsumerLab Tests: Beware of High Doses
White Plains, New York, June 14, 2022 — Recent ConsumerLab tests of over 30 popular vitamin B complexes and supplements revealed that four products contained either much less, or much more, of at least one B vitamin listed on the label.
Recalls & Warnings
September 16, 2019
CVS Settles Lawsuit Over Claims Its Omega-3 Supplement Improves Memory
CVS has agreed to settle charges from a class action lawsuit alleging it made false claims that its CVS brand Algal-900 DHA supplement was proven to improve memory.
News Release
February 25, 2022
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2022 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2022 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 8,049 responses collected in November/December 2021.
News Release
May 18, 2021
Caution With Potassium Supplements: You Could Get More Than Expected
White Plains, New York, May 18, 2021 — Recent tests by ConsumerLab.com of popular potassium supplements on the market revealed that consumers to get much more or much less potassium than expected from certain products.
News Release
February 25, 2021
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2021 Based on Consumer Satisfaction -- Results of the ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2021 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 9,647 responses collected in November 2020.
CL Answer
What is benfotiamine and can it really improve or prevent complications from diabetes?
Can benfotiamine really improve or prevent complications from diabetes? Learn more.
CL Answer
Does AZO Bladder Control really work for overactive bladder?
AZO Bladder Control information, including results from clinical studies on bladder control, dosage, and safety.
News Release
December 22, 2020
Best and Worst Ginger Supplements, Chews & Spices Identified by ConsumerLab. Contamination, Less Ginger Than Expected in Some Products.
White Plains, New York, December 22, 2020 — Ginger is not only a popular spice but may reduce nausea from motion sickness and pregnancy and modestly decrease pain from osteoarthritis. Key compounds in ginger known as gingerols are believed to be active components of ginger.
News Release
April 28, 2020
Best and Worst Multivitamins Revealed by ConsumerLab -- Problems Found With 44% of Multis Tested
White Plains, New York, April 28, 2020 — Multivitamin/multimineral supplements are among the top five most popular supplements, but with so many different formulas on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one.
News Release
March 25, 2020
Trouble Sleeping? ConsumerLab Tests Reveal the Best Melatonin Supplements
White Plains, New York, March 25, 2020 — Melatonin supplements can help you fall asleep faster, and some may help you stay asleep.
News Release
February 25, 2020
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2020 Based on Consumer Satisfaction -- Results of the ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2020 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 9,782 responses collected in late November and early December 2019.
News Release
July 31, 2019
ConsumerLab Tests Reveal Best CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements
White Plains, New York, July 31, 2019 — CoQ10 is among the most popular supplements, commonly taken to offset a decline in natural levels of CoQ10 that can occur with the use of statin medications, decrease statin side effects, and increase energy.
News Release
February 25, 2019
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2019 Based on Consumer Satisfaction -- Results of the ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2019 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 10,931 responses collected in late November and early December 2018.
News Release
November 19, 2018
Tests Reveal Best Fish Oil Supplements and How They Compare to Prescription Fish Oil
White Plains, New York, November 19, 2018 — Fish and marine oil supplements containing the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA offer a range of potential benefits for improving mental health, reducing inflammation, and even cancer prevention.
News Release
May 02, 2018
Best Probiotic Supplements and Kombuchas? -- ConsumerLab Tests 41 Popular Products, Reveals Problems and Top Picks
White Plains, New York, May 2, 2018 — With so many different probiotic supplements on the market, each providing different amounts and strains of beneficial bacteria or yeast, choosing the right one can be an overwhelming task.
News Release
February 25, 2018
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2018 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2018 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 11,446 responses collected in late November and early December 2017.
News Release
November 27, 2017
Flaxseed and Other Popular Omega 3 & 6 Oil Supplements Tested, But Not All Brands Pass -- Tests of Black Currant Oil, Borage Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Flaxseed Oil, and Hemp Oil Supplements
White Plains, New York, November 27, 2017 — Flaxseed oil and other popular seed oil are popular supplements that provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and may help with inflammatory conditions. But which seed oil supplements are the best? To find out, ConsumerLab.
News Release
November 01, 2017
Gummies Are Most Likely to Fail Testing in Review of Multivitamins -- Best and Worst Multivitamins Identified by ConsumerLab Testing
White Plains, New York, November 1, 2017 — Multivitamin/multimineral supplements are among the most popular supplements, with many consumers relying on them to provide nutrients they may not get from their diets. However, ConsumerLab.
News Release
September 26, 2017
ConsumerLab.com Explains How to Take Melatonin and Reveals Its Top Supplement Picks
White Plains, New York, September 26, 2017 — Melatonin is now one of the most popular supplements, largely due to its proven ability to trigger sleep.
Recalls & Warnings
January 16, 2015
CVS Sued for Eye Health Supplement Claims
A class-action lawsuit has been filed against CVS for promoting the company's Advanced Eye Health supplement as comparable to the formula used in the large National Institutes of Health (NIH) eye disease study known as AREDS2, despite the fact that it does not contain the same ingredients.
Recalls & Warnings
November 09, 2023
Zazzee Naturals Warned for MSM Eye Drop Claims
On October 30, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Dexterity Health, LLC DBA Zazzee Naturals following review of the company’s Amazon storefront, which found statements about the company’s Liquid MSM Drops to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
May 08, 2023
SD Biosensor Pilot At-Home COVID-19 Tests Recalled Due to Bacterial Contamination
On May 4, 2023, the FDA warned consumers and health care providers not to use certain lots of Roche Diagnostics’ SD Biosensor, Inc. Pilot COVID-19 At-Home Tests due to bacterial contamination in the test kit’s liquid solution.
Recalls & Warnings
June 22, 2023
Nationwide Pharmaceutical’s Ferrous Sulfate Supplements Recalled
On June 22, 2023, the U.S.
Recalls & Warnings
January 26, 2023
FDA Warns Seller of Canary Seed Omega-3
On November 16, 2022, the FDA issued a warning letter to Evimeria El Aztecano, Inc. following review of the company’s Yerbas Finas Leche de Alpiste con Guanabana y Omega-3 product labeling, which found the product contained less magnesium and potassium than claimed on the label.
Recalls & Warnings
February 28, 2024
Microbial Contamination Found in LightEyez MSM Eye Drops
On February 15, 2024, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to LightEyez Limited after testing by the agency found the company’s LightEyez.com MSM Eye Drops V2.0 — Eye Repair (MSM Eye Repair Drops) to have microbial contamination in samples of the drops.
News Release
May 17, 2017
Best Vitamin D? ConsumerLab.com Tests Popular Vitamin D Supplements and Reveals Its Top Picks
White Plains, New York, May 17, 2017 — Vitamin D is currently the most popular dietary supplement among people who regularly use supplements according to a recent survey by ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
March 15, 2017
ConsumerLab.com Reveals Best and Worst Vitamin C Supplements -- 20% Fail ConsumerLab.com Tests of Quality
White Plains, New York, March 15, 2017 — Many people take large doses of vitamin C believing it will improve their health, prevent colds or reduce the risk of disease — but will it really? And when choosing a vitamin C supplement, can consumers be sure it contains what it claims? To ...
News Release
February 25, 2017
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2017 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
White Plains, New York, February 25, 2017 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 9,505 responses collected in late November and early December 2016.
News Release
February 23, 2017
ConsumerLab.com Reveals Best and Worst B Vitamin Supplements and Why Current Labels Often Mislead
White Plains, New York, February 24, 2017 — B vitamins and complexes are popular supplements, but labels often mislead, says a new report from ConsumerLab.com which tested, reviewed, and compared 49 supplements from the U.S.
News Release
December 21, 2016
Best CoQ10? ConsumerLab.com Tests Popular CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements and Reveals Its Top Picks
White Plains, New York, December 21, 2016 — Although CoQ10 and ubiquinol are among the most popular supplements, wide variations in price, dosage, absorption and bioavailability can make choosing the right product a difficult task. To help, ConsumerLab.
News Release
December 06, 2016
Which Brands of Alpha Lipoic Acid are Best? -- ConsumerLab.com Tests Lipoic Acid Supplements for Quality, Identifying Top Picks
White Plains, New York, December 6, 2016 — Alpha-lipoic acid supplements may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, reduce symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and enhance weight loss when dieting.
News Release
November 15, 2016
ConsumerLab.com Finds Arsenic in Testing of Potassium Supplements -- Safer Choices Identified. Many Americans May Need More Potassium
White Plains, New York, November 15, 2016 — During a recent analysis of potassium supplements sold in the U.S. and Canada, ConsumerLab.com discovered significant contamination with the toxic heavy metal arsenic in pills from one brand.
News Release
June 03, 2016
What Works for Joint Health? ConsumerLab.com Reviews Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM and Boswellia Supplements for People and Pets
White Plains, New York, June 3, 2016 — Do popular joint health supplements with ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, Boswellia, and MSM really work to relieve pain or slow the progression of osteoarthritis? And, with so many to choose from, which supplements are best? To find out, ...
News Release
February 25, 2016
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2016 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 11,534 responses collected in November, 2015. Respondents gave ratings for 963 brands and 399 merchants.
News Release
February 09, 2016
Lysine: Does It Work for Cold Sores and Which Brands Are Best? -- ConsumerLab.com Reviews the Evidence and Tests Supplements Often Used to Prevent Herpes Eruptions
White Plains, New York, February 9, 2016 — Lysine is an essential amino acid often taken as a supplement to prevent cold sores, genital herpes lesions, and canker sores. It's also given to cats with feline herpesvirus 1.
News Release
January 19, 2016
SAM-e Supplements Providing Best Quality and Value Identified by ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York, January 19, 2016 — SAM-e (S-adenosyl-methionine) is involved in the functioning of every cell in the body and, as a supplement, it has been found to be helpful in reducing the pain of osteoarthritis as well as improving mood in major depression.
News Release
January 12, 2016
Problems Found with 32% of Multivitamin/Multimineral Supplements -- ConsumerLab.com Identifies Good Choices for Men, Women, and Children
White Plains, New York, January 12, 2016 — You can't always judge a supplement by its label -- or by its price, according to a new report from ConsumerLab.com, which recently tested dozens of multivitamin/multimineral supplements.
News Release
December 17, 2015
ConsumerLab.com Focuses on Vision Supplements, Spotting the Best and the Worst
White Plains, New York, December 17, 2015 — Supplements containing lutein and other ingredients have been shown to slow deterioration of the retina in people with age-related macular degeneration.
News Release
November 06, 2015
Some Surprising Results from Tests of 43 Probiotic Supplements and Kefir Drinks
White Plains, New York, November 6, 2015 — How many beneficial organisms are in probiotic supplements and kefir drinks? Are any contaminated with pathogens, such as E. coli, and do those labeled as "gluten free" or "99% lactose-free" live up to their claims? To find out, ConsumerLab.
News Release
August 28, 2015
Not All Vitamin E Supplements Are Alike, Especially "Natural" Ones, ConsumerLab.com Tests Reveal
White Plains, New York, August 28, 2015 — ConsumerLab.com recently tested popular brands of natural and synthetic vitamin E supplements and found that not all vitamin E supplements are the same - with big differences in the types and amounts of compounds they contain.
News Release
May 28, 2015
ConsumerLab.com Shows How to Choose the Right Melatonin Supplement for Sleep
White Plains, New York, May 28, 2015 — An estimated 60 million Americans experience insomnia each year, according to the National Institutes of Health, and they increasingly turn to the supplement melatonin for potential help. In fact, U.S. sales of melatonin increased 16.
News Release
April 28, 2015
Best Supplements for Bone Health? ConsumerLab.com Finds Products with Multiple Ingredients More Likely to Contain Wrong Amounts
White Plains, New York, April 28, 2015 — Vitamin D and calcium each play a crucial role in bone health and are among the most popular supplement ingredients in the U.S., but recent ConsumerLab.
News Release
March 17, 2015
CoQ10 & Ubiquinol Supplements Vary in Quality, as Well as Dose, Absorption, and Price According to ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York, March 17, 2015 — Findings from a recent study by ConsumerLab.com highlights the difficulty consumers have in selecting a supplement containing the highly-popular anti-oxidant CoQ10 or its activated form, ubiquinol. ConsumerLab.
News Release
February 25, 2015
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2015 Based on Consumer Satisfaction -- Results of the ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 10,329 responses collected in November, 2014. Respondents gave ratings for 1,709 brands and 891 merchants.
News Release
January 20, 2015
ConsumerLab.com Identifies Best Vitamin A Supplements, But Cautions That Most People Don't Need Them
White Plains, New York, January 20, 2015 — Vitamin A supplements can save your sight and reduce your risk of infection if you are vitamin A deficient. However, deficiency is rare in the U.S., where people are more likely to be at risk for excess vitamin A.
News Release
December 10, 2014
ConsumerLab.com Identifies Best Zinc Products for Colds, Eyes, and Zinc Deficiency -- Popular Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Tested and Compared
White Plains, New York, December 10, 2014 — "Zinc supplements have been shown to shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration, but not all products provide the dosage proven effective, as well as pass criteria for supplement quality," says Tod Cooperman, M.D.
News Release
May 07, 2014
Flaxseed and Other Popular Seed Oil Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com, But Not All Brands Pass -- Flaxseed, Black Currant, Borage and Evening Primrose Oils Reviewed
White Plains, New York, May 7, 2014 — Plant seed oils are popular supplements that provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, but which products offer the best value and quality? Recent analyses by ConsumerLab.
Recalls & Warnings
June 16, 2022
Omega 3 Supplements Recalled Due to Undeclared Drug Ingredients
On May 28, 2022, Latin Foods Market issued a voluntary recall of one lot of Artri King Reforzado con Ortiga y Omega 3 tablets after FDA laboratory analysis found the presence of undeclared diclofenac and dexamethasone.
Recalls & Warnings
November 29, 2023
Dr. Berne’s Whole Health Products Warned for Contaminated Eye Drop Products, Drug Claims
On November 22, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Dr. Berne’s Whole Health Products following review of the company’s website, which found statements about the company’s Dr. Berne’s MSM Eye Drops 5%, Dr. Berne’s MSM Eye Drops 15%, and Dr.
Recalls & Warnings
April 02, 2021
Seller of Vision Supplements Warned by FDA
On March 19, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to Lipotriad LLC following a review of the company's websites, which found statements made about the company's products Lipotriad Visionary, Lipotriad Adult 50+, Lipotriad Dry Eye, and Lipotriad Vision Support Plus to ...
News Release
April 09, 2014
Best Fish Oil? ConsumerLab.com Testing Finds Many High Quality Supplements, But Pitfalls Exist
White Plains, New York, August 10, 2014 — Recent laboratory tests of fish oil, krill oil, algal oil, calamari oil, and green-lipped mussel oil supplements by ConsumerLab.com revealed quality problems with four out of 30 supplements selected for review.
News Release
February 26, 2014
Mislabeling of Some Joint Health Supplements with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, Boswellia, and MSM According to ConsumerLab.com -- 38 Supplements Tested, Including Products for Dogs and Cats --
White Plains, New York, February 26, 2014 — Glucosamine, chondroitin, Boswellia, and MSM are popular dietary supplement ingredients for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis — worn joint cartilage.
News Release
February 12, 2014
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2014 Based on Consumer Satisfaction -- Results of the ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 10,326 responses collected in November, 2013. Respondents gave ratings for 1,639 brands and 788 merchants.
News Release
January 29, 2014
You May Be Getting More Vitamin C Than You Think from Some Supplements, Cautions ConsumerLab.com -- 27% of Vitamin C Supplements Don't Meet Label Claims in Recent Tests --
White Plains, New York, January 29, 2014 — It's cold and flu season, which means many people are reaching for vitamin C, as it may modestly reduce cold symptoms (although it won't prevent a cold).
News Release
November 25, 2013
Many Probiotic Supplements Fall Short on Listed Amounts of Helpful Organisms
White Plains, New York, November 25, 2013 — Probiotic supplements and foods containing "friendly" bacteria or yeast have become popular among people hoping to improve bowel function, immunity, and even mood.
News Release
August 21, 2013
Labels on Potassium Supplements May Confuse, But Product Quality is High According to ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York August 21, 2013 — How much potassium would you expect from a supplement called "Potassium Gluconate 595 mg"? The correct answer is just 99 mg, as ConsumerLab.com explains in its new Potassium Supplements Review, published online today.
News Release
March 05, 2013
CoQ10 & Ubiquinol Supplements Should Be Chosen Carefully, Cautions ConsumerLab.com -- Less Than 4% of Listed Ingredient Found in Widely-Sold Product
White Plains, New York — March 5, 2013 — A new report from ConsumerLab.com highlights the difficulty consumers have in selecting a supplement containing the anti-oxidant CoQ10 or its activated form, ubiquinol. ConsumerLab.
News Release
February 01, 2013
Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2013 Based on Consumer Satisfaction
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 10,862 responses collected in November, 2012. Respondents gave ratings for 1,438 brands and 851 merchants.
News Release
October 17, 2012
ConsumerLab.com Tests and Compares Vision Supplements - Guides Consumers Through a Variety of Ingredients and Formulas
White Plains, New York — October 17, 2012 — Can a supplement improve your vision or prevent it from deteriorating? "The evidence shows that some supplements may help improve vision in people with macular degeneration and others can slow its progression," says Tod Cooperman, M.D.
News Release
September 27, 2012
ConsumerLab.com Reveals How Much Caffeine is in Energy Drinks -- Also Finds Some Drinks and Dietary Supplements Don't Contain Claimed Amounts of B Vitamins
White Plains, New York — September 27, 2012 — Energy shots and drinks are promoted to keep you alert and energized, attributing their effects to special formulas often "packed with B vitamins and nutrients to make it last," as a commercial for 5-hour Energy proclaims.
News Release
August 31, 2012
ConsumerLab.com tests selenium supplements -- Finds one with less than 25% of listed amount
White Plains, New York, August 31, 2012 — ConsumerLab.com announced results today of its Product Review of Selenium Supplements. Among the supplements selected by ConsumerLab.com for testing, one was found to contain only 23.
News Release
August 22, 2012
Contamination and Other Problems Found in Fish Oil Supplements -- Large Review by ConsumerLab.com Reveals Excessive PCBs or Mislabeling in Over 30% of Omega-3 Supplements
August 22, 2012 — The quality of fish oil / omega-3 supplements varies across brands, according to recent tests by ConsumerLab.com, which independently reports on the quality of health products. Analyses of 35 products selected and purchased by ConsumerLab.
News Release
June 18, 2012
What is "Natural" Vitamin E? It Depends On the Brand Selling It, Finds ConsumerLab.com -- New Review of Vitamin E Supplements, Oil and Cream, Including Tocopherols and Tocotrienols
White Plains, New York, June 18, 2012 — What is in a "natural" vitamin E supplement, cream, or oil? According to recent tests by independent evaluator, ConsumerLab.com, this depends completely on the brand selling it.
News Release
May 30, 2012
ConsumerLab.com Identifies Best and Worst Magnesium Supplements Based on Tests and Comparisons
White Plains, New York — MAY 30, 2012 — Magnesium supplements are among the most popular supplements in the U.S. But which magnesium supplements are best? ConsumerLab.
News Release
May 08, 2012
Lead Contamination and Mislabeling in Joint Health Supplements with Glucosamine, Chondroitin, and MSM According to ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York, May 8, 2012 — Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are popular dietary supplements for treating symptoms of osteoarthritis — worn joint cartilage.
News Release
April 26, 2012
ConsumerLab.com reviews prostate supplements with saw palmetto and/or beta-sitosterol and finds few likely to be effective
White Plains, New York April 26, 2012 — Can supplements reduce the symptoms of prostate enlargement in men, as some products claim? ConsumerLab.com researchers recently tackled this question, investigating the evidence behind prostate supplements and testing the quality of these products.
News Release
March 12, 2012
Review of vitamin C supplements by ConsumerLab.com finds many of high quality but a wide range in prices
White Plains, New York — March 8, 2012 — Vitamin C may boost the immune system and is critical for maintaining healthy connective tissue, but do you need to take a supplement and, if so, how do you find one that is right for you and at the best price? ConsumerLab.
News Release
February 01, 2012
Top-rated vitamin and supplement brands and merchants on consumer satisfaction for 2012 -- Based on ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 10,260 responses collected in November, 2011. Most respondents used multiple supplements.
News Release
December 20, 2011
Choose zinc supplements carefully -- ConsumerLab.com finds only some have dosage proven to shorten colds, reduce eye disease
White Plains, New York — December 20, 2011 — Can zinc supplements shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration? "Yes, but not all supplements provide a dosage that has been proven effective." says Tod Cooperman, M.D., President of ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
November 29, 2011
ConsumerLab.com identifies many quality melatonin sleep supplements, but prices range from 4 cents to over $1 for the same dose
White Plains, New York — November 29th, 2011 — Can melatonin help you sleep? "Melatonin supplements may help some people get to sleep sooner, particularly those with chronic sleeping problems, but don't just buy any supplement - they vary significantly in strength, dosage, and cost," ...
News Release
October 31, 2011
Supplements for lactose intolerance vary in strength and cost, and some offer no benefit, according to ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York — October 31, 2011 — Can lactose-free milks and lactase enzyme supplements provide help to the millions of Americans with lactose intolerance.
News Release
October 13, 2011
30% of SAM-e supplements selected for review fail to pass ConsumerLab.com testing -- Cost of SAM-e found to vary 5-fold
White Plains, New York, October 13, 2011 — Dietary supplements with SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) are used to treat osteoarthritis as well as depression, but only 7 out of ten SAM-e supplements recently selected for testing by ConsumerLab.com met all quality criteria.
News Release
September 21, 2011
Not all vitamin A supplements pass ConsumerLab.com tests -- New report reviews beta-carotene and cod liver oil supplements
White Plains, New York — September 21, 2011 — Recent tests of vitamin A supplements by ConsumerLab.com found one to contain only 54.3% of its listed amount of vitamin A. Another product mislabeled alpha carotene as vitamin A.
News Release
July 12, 2011
ConsumerLab.com tests menopause supplements and creams: Most are "Approved," but some found contaminated or lacking claimed amount of ingredient
White Plains, New York — July 12, 2011 — Women looking for relief from hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms often turn to supplements containing estrogen-like isoflavones (from soy or red clover), the herbal remedy black cohosh, or creams containing progesterone.
News Release
June 16, 2011
ConsumerLab.com puts multivitamins to the test
June 16, 2011, New York, NY — Laboratory test results of 60 multivitamins have shown that you can't always judge a supplement by its label—or by its price. "Consumers should know that multivitamins vary widely in quality, "says Tod Cooperman, M.D., President of ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
April 26, 2011
Problems discovered with eight vitamin D supplements in study by ConsumerLab.com -- Incorrect amounts of vitamins, lead contamination, and labeling infractions identified.
White Plains, New York — April 26, 2010 — Among 28 vitamin D supplements recently selected for independent testing, problems were found with 8 products, 29% of those reviewed, according to ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
March 08, 2011
ConsumerLab.com reviews CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements -- Tests show quality to be high, but large differences found in dosage, formulation, and cost
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MARCH 8, 2011 — A new report by ConsumerLab.com highlights the difficulty consumers may have in selecting a supplement containing the anti-oxidant CoQ10 or its activated form, ubiquinol. CoQ10 is among the most popular dietary supplements in the U.S.
News Release
February 01, 2011
Top-rated vitamin and supplement brands and merchants on consumer satisfaction for 2011 -- Based on ConsumerLab.com survey of vitamin and supplement users
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 6,010 responses collected in November, 2010. Most respondents used multiple supplements.
News Release
January 31, 2011
Vitamin D use increased 52% in past two years according to ConsumerLab.com survey of supplement users -- Fish oil continued to surpass multivitamins as most popular supplement and Internet was most common place to buy supplements
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — FEBRUARY 1, 2011 — Among people who use dietary supplements, the most popular products at the end of 2010 were fish oil, multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium and CoQ10 according to a survey by ConsumerLab.com. Use of vitamin D surged in 2010 to 56.
News Release
November 10, 2010
Only 22% of valerian herbal sleep supplements selected for review pass tests for quality by ConsumerLab.com
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — NOVEMBER 10, 2010 — ConsumerLab.com reported that most of the valerian herbal supplements recently selected for testing contained less of the herb than expected and/or were contaminated with lead.
News Release
October 26, 2010
ConsumerLab.com reports deficiencies in some B-complex supplements and more caffeine than expected in "shot-sized" B vitamin "energy" drinks
White Plains, New York — October 26, 2010 — Tests of B vitamin supplements, including B-complexes and shot-sized energy drinks, revealed problems with the quality of 4 out of 18 products selected for review by independent testing organization ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
September 28, 2010
ConsumerLab.com finds quality problems with nearly 30% of fish oil supplements reviewed; "Fishy" claims identified -- Softgels and liquids for adults, children and pets tested, including krill oil and algal oil supplements
White Plains, New York — September 28, 2010 — Tests of fish, algal and krill oil supplements revealed quality problems with 7 out of 24 products selected by independent testing organization ConsumerLab.com.
Recalls & Warnings
June 02, 2022
Walmart Inc. Recalls Joint Supplements With Omega-3, Glucosamine & Curcumin
On May 28, 2022, Walmart Inc. issued a voluntary recall of all lots of Artri Ajo King Joint Supplements after FDA laboratory analysis found the presence of undeclared diclofenac.
Recalls & Warnings
August 08, 2022
Recall of Oral Magnesium Laxatives Expanded
On August 3, 2022, Plastikon Healthcare, LLC issued a recall of multiple oral suspension products due to microbial contamination.
News Release
April 14, 2010
ConsumerLab.com reports most St. John's wort supplements fail quality tests -- An effective antidepressant herb but heavy metal contamination and low potency are concerns
White Plains, New York — April 14, 2010 — St. John's wort has been shown to be effective in treating mild to moderate forms of major depression, but a new report from ConsumerLab.com shows that few of the herbal supplement brands recently tested met quality standards. Among the ten St.
News Release
February 01, 2010
Top-rated supplement brands and merchants for consumer satisfaction for 2010; Based on ConsumerLab.com Survey of Vitamin & Supplement Users
Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on a sample size of 6,012 responses collected in November, 2009. Most respondents use multiple supplements.
News Release
July 10, 2009
Nine joint health supplements fail ConsumerLab.com quality review -- Lead contamination, missing ingredients and other problems found in supplements for people as well as for dogs, cats and horses; Many others approved
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — JULY 10, 2009 — Nine supplements for osteoarthritis that ConsumerLab.com recently selected for testing were found to be contaminated with lead, lack all or some of a key ingredient or have other quality problems.
News Release
March 31, 2009
ConsumerLab.com Warns of Problems with Multivitamins and Vitamin Water -- Defects Found in Over 30% of Supplements Selected for Testing; Several Popular Children's Multis Exceed Tolerable Upper Intake Levels
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MARCH 31, 2009 — Over 30% of multivitamins recently selected for testing by ConsumerLab.com were found to contain significantly more or less ingredient than claimed or were contaminated with lead.
News Release
February 03, 2009
Survey shows fish oil nearly as popular as multivitamins among supplement users. Most also take calcium and CoQ10 -- ConsumerLab.com publishes 2009 Report on Vitamin & Supplement Users, including top-rated brands and merchants.
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — FEBRUARY 3, 2009 — Among people who use dietary supplements, fish oil supplements are nearly as popular as multivitamins, according to a recent survey by ConsumerLab.com, which also publishes test reports on supplements.
News Release
October 02, 2008
ConsumerLab.com finds melatonin supplements range in strength but ingredient quality is high
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — OCTOBER 2, 2008 — ConsumerLab.com announced test results today from its new Product Review of Melatonin Supplements. Melatonin supplements may help treat certain sleep disorders and disturbances, including jet lag.
News Release
August 05, 2008
ConsumerLab.com Find Fifty Fish Oil Supplements Pass Quality Testing -- New Report Helps Consumers Choose Among Pills, Liquids, Foods and Beverages with Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA)
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — AUGUST 5, 2008 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that testing of fifty omega-3 fish oil supplements, foods or beverages (including two marketed for pets) found all to have safe levels of mercury, lead and PCBs.
News Release
January 23, 2008
ConsumerLab.com announces brands and merchants rated highest by dietary supplement consumers
WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK — JANUARY 23, 2008 — ConsumerLab.com announced today the names of brands and merchants which received the highest overall consumer satisfaction ratings in the ConsumerLab.com 2008 Survey of Vitamin and Supplement Users.
News Release
December 10, 2007
ConsumerLab.com finds improvement in quality of omega-3 and -6 supplements — Results for 22 products made from evening primrose, flaxseed, borage and black currant oils
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — DECEMBER 10, 2007 — A new report on the quality of omega-3 and -6 fatty acid supplements made from seed oils was released by ConsumerLab.com today. Two products were slightly low in one fatty acid, but this is an improvement over results from ConsumerLab.
News Release
April 11, 2007
Many arthritis supplements lack key listed ingredient — ConsumerLab.com finds chondroitin missing or low in eight supplements; Glucosamine and MSM also tested
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — April 11, 2007 — Forty percent of the supplements for osteoarthritis that ConsumerLab.com recently selected for testing were found to lack all or some of their key ingredients. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting an estimated 20.
News Release
February 15, 2007
ConsumerLab.com survey shows brands and merchants rated highest by dietary supplement users
CONSUMERLAB.
News Release
May 05, 2002
Study finds supplement users avoid prescription drugs due to side effects, not cost — Brands top rated by users also identified in new survey by ConsumerLab.com
WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 5, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com, traditionally known for its independent laboratory evaluations of dietary supplements and nutritional products, announced surprising findings today from a new survey of supplement users.
Recalls & Warnings
November 25, 2016
Homeopathic Teething Tablets and Ear Relief Products Containing Belladonna Recalled
On November 24, 2016, Raritan Pharmaceuticals, a contract manufacturer for Homeolab USA, issued a recall of three homeopathic products for infants and/or children which contain belladonna extract. The products may contain belladonna alkaloids, compounds which can have harmful effects in people.
Recalls & Warnings
October 12, 2020
NutraClick to Pay $1.04 Million for Illegally Billing Consumers
On September 22, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that NutraClick LLC agreed to pay $1.04 million to settle FTC charges that the company was deceptively selling and billing consumers for supplements and beauty products.
Recalls & Warnings
September 24, 2020
FTC Sends Refund Checks to Consumers of Deceptive Joint Pain Supplement
On September 24, 2020, the FTC announced it is mailing 4,782 checks totaling more than $76,000 to consumers who bought Isoprex, a supplement marketed with deceptive claims that it could treat or cure joint pain, muscle pain, headaches, and arthritis.
Recalls & Warnings
April 17, 2020
Joint Pain Supplement Isoprex Settles Charges of Making False Claims
On April 16, 2020, Renaissance Health Publishing, LLC, agreed to halt their allegedly deceptive advertising claims about their Isoprex supplement that targeted older consumers nationwide after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a complaint.
Recalls & Warnings
March 20, 2020
Seller of Rejuvenation Pills Settles Charges of Making False Claims
Health Center, Inc. has agreed to halt their allegedly deceptive advertising claims about three "cure-all" health and wellness products that targeted older consumers nationwide after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a complaint.
Recalls & Warnings
February 11, 2020
FTC Sues Two Companies Selling Bone Health and Joint Pain Supplements
On February 11, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it sued two companies to stop them from continuing to make false claims about their bone and joint health products, Ostinol (ZyCal Bioceuticals) and StimTein (Excellent Marketing Results, Inc. (EMR)).
News Release
March 06, 2002
Study finds supplement users avoid prescription drugs due to side effects, not cost — Brands top rated by users also identified in new survey by ConsumerLab.com
WHITE PLAINS, NY — March 6, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com, traditionally known for its independent laboratory evaluations of dietary supplements and nutritional products, announced surprising findings today from a new survey of supplement users.
Recalls & Warnings
December 21, 2019
Supplement Company Continues to Make False Claims About Its Products, Says FTC
The FTC has filed a motion of contempt against two supplement companies that, according to the motion, have continued to promote their products with false claims despite being barred from doing so by a previous court order.
Recalls & Warnings
December 05, 2019
Joint Supplement Synovia Was Promoted With Phony Testimonials, Says FTC
A.S. Research, LLC, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that they deceived consumers with false claims that their dietary supplement Synovia could treat arthritis and alleviate joint pain.
Recalls & Warnings
November 02, 2019
Brain Supplement Claims to Treat Brain Injuries, Alzheimer's Are Deceptive, Says FTC
On November 1, 2019 the FTC filed a lawsuit against Neora LLC (formerly Nerium International) for making false claims that the supplement Neora EHT (formerly called Nerium EHT) can treat concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy caused by repetitive brain trauma, Alzheimer's ...
Recalls & Warnings
October 29, 2019
Publisher Sued for Promoting "Phony Diabetes Cure"
On October 24, 2019 the FTC filed a lawsuit against the publisher of books, newsletters, and other publications aimed at seniors that falsely promise to cure type 2 diabetes.
Recalls & Warnings
October 22, 2019
Seller of TrueAloe and AloeCran Settles Charges of Making False Claims
NatureCity, LLC, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that they deceived consumers by making false claims about their TrueAloe and AloeCran products.
Recalls & Warnings
October 01, 2016
Homeopathic Teething Tablets and Gels May Pose Danger, FDA Warns
On September 30, 2016, the FDA warned consumers that homeopathic teething tablets and gels may be dangerous for infants and children. The agency has received adverse events reports, including seizures, associated with the use of these products.
Recalls & Warnings
November 04, 2002
Recall Of Selected Store Brand Infant Formula in U.S.
On November 1, 2002, Wyeth Nutrition, in consultation with the U.S.
Recalls & Warnings
December 02, 2014
Glucosamine Class-Action Settlement Reversed by Appeals Court
On November 19, 2014, an appeals court rejected a settlement of a class-action lawsuit that alleged label claims on glucosamine products manufactured or sold by Rexall Sundown, Inc., NBTY, Inc. or their affiliates, were false, deceptive or misleading.
Recalls & Warnings
September 13, 2014
Marketer Banned From Selling Weight Loss Products
In order to settle FTC charges of deceptive weight loss claims, John Matthew Dwyer III, the co-founder of HealthyLife Sciences, LLC, has agreed to no longer manufacture or market weight loss supplements.
Recalls & Warnings
June 12, 2014
Marketers of Memory Supplement Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Claims
Martek Biosciences Corporation and i-Health Inc., marketers of BrainStrong Adult, have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that claims the supplement could improve adult memory and prevent cognitive decline were deceptive, and not supported by sufficient clinical evidence.
Recalls & Warnings
August 27, 2013
FTC Refunds Consumers of Children's Vitamins as Part of Deceptive Advertising Settlement
On August 8, 2013, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced it has mailed 10,144 refund checks to consumers who purchased Disney or Marvel Hero -themed children's vitamins, including Disney Princesses, Winnie the Pooh, Finding Nemo, and Spider-Man varieties, between May 1, 2008 and September ...
Recalls & Warnings
May 20, 2015
Supplements to Eliminate Gray Hair Not Supported by Science, Says FTC
On May 13, 2015, the FTC announced marketers of GetAwayGrey and Rise-N-Shine, dietary supplements promoted to reverse or prevent gray hair, have agreed to settle charges that claims made about the products are not supported by science.
Recalls & Warnings
March 17, 2015
Seller of Tea Warned for Drug Claims
On March 4, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Four Elements Organic Herbals, LLC because statements made about HERBAL TEA Power, Energy & Stamina, ORGANIC HERBAL TEA Tulsi TelepaTea, ORGANIC HERBAL TEA To Your Health, Hawthorn Fresh Herb Extract, Elderberry Fresh Herb ...
Recalls & Warnings
March 06, 2015
Seller of Tea Drinks Warned for Drug Claims
On February 26, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to the seller of Anamu CancerHerb Tea Box, Anamu CancerHerb Tea Box with Honey and Organic Bottled Tea Drinks because statements made about these products on the websites, www.cancerherbtea.com and www.anamucancerherbtea.
Recalls & Warnings
February 17, 2015
Seller of Muscle Supplements Containing Synthetic Steroids Warned
On February 9, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to A2Z Industries, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's muscle enhancing supplements, including HaloV and EPI2A3A to be labeled as containing synthetic steroids.
Recalls & Warnings
February 06, 2015
Seller of Aloe Supplement Warned for Drug Claims
On January 21, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pristine Nutraceuticals, LLC, following a review of the company's website, http://www.digestaqure.com, which found statements made about DigestaCure to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
January 10, 2017
FTC Charges Marketers of Prevagen With Making False Claims
On January 9, 2017, the FTC charged the marketers of Prevagen with making false and unsubstantiated claims that the supplement improves memory, provides cognitive benefits, and is "clinically shown" to work.
Recalls & Warnings
June 04, 2004
FTC Charges Marketers of Two Supplements with False Claims to Cure Range of Diseases
On June 3, 2004 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged marketers of two dietary supplements with falsely claiming that their products can prevent and cure cancer and other diseases. According to the FTC’s complaint, Boston-area marketers Direct Marketing Concepts, Inc. (DMC), ITV Direct, Inc.