Stay safe using herbal remedies
Welcome to the patients and public area of the MHRA website. This section provides targeted links to information throughout the site which is aimed specifically at patients and the public.
The section includes latest news and hot topics for the MHRA, details on reporting safety problems and information on specific medicines, devices and conditions.
If you have any feedback on this section and how we can improve it please email webusability@mhra.gsi.gov.uk or fill out our feedback form.
News and hot topics
30 Jan 2012 | MHRA statement on metal-on-metal hip implants
Details of the current situation for metal-on-metal hip implants and a statement from an MHRA spokesperson.
30 Jan 2012 | Poly Implant Prothese (PIP) breast implants update
Women concerned about PIP breast implants can find all the latest NHS information on NHS Choices.
27 Jan 2012 | Consumers are advised not to take unlicensed Butterbur (Petasites hybridus) herbal remedies
The MHRA has recently become aware that unlicensed herbal products containing butterbur (Petasites hybridus) are being marketed in the UK and is warning consumers about the risks associated with the use of these products.
16 Jan 2012 | Press release: Product recall of saline nasal spray due to bacterial contamination
The MHRA has received warning of possible bacterial contamination in batches of the saline nasal spray Sterimar Isotonic 100ml. The spray is sold online and at high street retailers and is commonly used to cleanse the nasal passage.
09 Dec 2011 | Press release: UK regulator warns of the importance of using registered herbal medicines after discovering super-strength menopause remedy
The MHRA is urging consumers that natural does not always mean safe following a safety notice issued for FSC Black Cohosh 1000mg capsules, an unlicensed herbal remedy commonly used to relieve menopausal symptoms.
Contacting the MHRA
Medicines, devices and conditions
My medicine: From laboratory to pharmacy shelf
Reporting safety problems
It is crucial that issues with medicines and medical devices are reported to the MHRA, as this allows us to monitor the safety and efficacy of products, and take action if necessary. This page provides links to information about reporting problems with medicines, vaccines and devices.
Buying counterfeit medicines and medicines online
Counterfeit medicines and medicines bought online are an increasing problem, both in the UK and globally. This page provides links to information about the risks of buying medicines over the internet and counterfeit medicines and devices.
Go to the page on counterfeit medicines and buying medicines online
Herbal and homeopathic medicines
Herbal and homeopathic medicines and substance are medicines in their own right. As with any other medicine they are likely to have an effect on the body and should be used with care.
Medicines and your family
