Numerous Clinics Selling Unapproved, Unproven Stem Cell Treatments for Long COVID, Studies Reveal

Businesses engage in direct-to-consumer marketing of stem cell and exosome therapies costing between $2,950 and $25,000, lacking federal approval and evidence of effectiveness, targeting patients suffering from persisting symptoms post COVID-19 infection, known as long COVID.

• A new study reveals many clinics are illegally upselling unapproved stem cell treatments as remedies for long COVID. These businesses operate in multiple countries, with the majority situated in the United States and Mexico.
• The treatments being sold, unverified stem cell and exosome therapies, have not been approved by regulatory authorities and lack robust safety data. The exorbitant cost can range from $2,950 to $25,000, with the average price being $11,322.
• Of the 38 businesses found, most market their products as treatments for long COVID — the lingering symptoms experienced post-COVID infection. Other advertising claims from these companies include 'immune boosting' effects and prevention of infection.
• In addition to using websites to market these unauthorized treatments, some companies also use social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Misleading claims about these treatments target desperate patients and exploit their vulnerabilities.
• Medical societies caution patients and physicians about such unproven treatments that promise to alleviate suffering, emphasizing the importance of the scientific process of testing and validation. Physicians and experts strongly advise consultation before embarking on any advertised treatment.

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