United States Special Senate Committee on Aging

Hearing on Swindlers, Hucksters and Snake Oil Salesmen:
The Hype and Hope of Marketing Anti-Aging Products to Seniors
September 10, 2001

• If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.
• Listen carefully to what is being advertised.
• Don't be afraid to ask questions about the product. Find out exactly what it should do for you and what it shouldn't.
• Research a product thoroughly before buying it. Call the Better Business Bureau to find out if people have complained about the product.
• Watch out for so-called "Secret Formulas" or "Breakthroughs of the Century."
• Be wary of products that purport to cure a wide variety of illnesses (particularly serious ones) that don't appear to be related.
• Testimonials and/or celebrity endorsements are often misleading and sometimes are simply fabricated by the product's manufacturer.
• Be very careful of products that are marketed as having no side effects. This is a hard promise to make and an even harder one to live up to.
• Products that are advertised as making visits to a physician unnecessary should be questioned.
• Always consult your doctor before taking any dietary or nutritional supplement.
• Always tell your doctor about any dietary or nutritional supplements you are taking prior to surgery.