Swissmedic, Swiss Institute for Therapeutic Products
Bern, 03.26.2024 – The specialist body for delimitation issues, which brings together experts involving different authorities, classifies the lipolysis solution “Lemon Bottle” as a medicinal product due to its composition and method of administration (injection ). However, because it has not obtained marketing authorization, this preparation cannot be marketed in Switzerland and must not be used. Swissmedic expressly warns against the use of this product for which no medical effects have been scientifically proven. The Swissmedic laboratory analyzed samples of the “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution from different sources but did not detect any of the declared ingredients.
Swissmedic has also recently received more and more requests for the “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution. This star product on the Internet and on social networks promises a reduction in fat deposits in certain specific areas. According to information on the packaging and on the Internet, this preparation allegedly contains, in addition to a series of natural ingredients, mainly bromelain, lecithin and riboflavin.
Misrepresentation of ingredients
The official Swissmedic laboratory analyzed product samples from different sources and found not only that the ingredients did not match the declaration, but also that they were significantly different from one sample to another. Thus, in one of them only caffeine was found, while in another none of the ingredients mentioned on the packaging could be detected. These cases are therefore falsifications.
Injectable pharmacological preparations are medicines subject to authorization
Injectables fall under therapeutic products legislation, regardless of how deep they are injected into the skin. They cannot therefore be marketed as cosmetic products due to this method of administration (injection).
Consequently and having regard to the route of administration as well as the ingredients of the “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution, the panel of experts for questions of delimitation (authorities involved: OFSP, OSAV, Association of cantonal pharmacists, Association cantonal chemists of Switzerland and Swissmedic) classifies this product in the category of medicines. Therefore, the distribution, delivery and use of this preparation are subject to the requirements of the legislation on therapeutic products. Thus the distribution, but also the delivery and use of this preparation are subject to the requirements of the legislation on therapeutic products. Since the “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution does not currently have any marketing authorization as a medicine, it cannot be marketed in Switzerland and any distribution, supply and use are therefore prohibited there. Competent authorities can seize illegal medicines and take further action.
Swissmedic expressly warns against the use of the “Lemon Bottle” lipolysis solution. No medical effects are scientifically proven, the quality of its ingredients is not controlled and its use may therefore present a health risk.
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Swissmedic, Swiss Institute for Therapeutic Products