Wondering about a marketing claim that uses the Mayo Clinic brand?

Health & Wellness

Wondering about a marketing claim that uses the Mayo Clinic brand?

By
Ron Petrovich

November 9, 2011

Mayo Clinic does not support or endorse any external commercial products or companies, and never has. Yet, from time to time, we hear from concerned consumers, our patients and employees, or the media about materials they see in the marketplace where a non-Mayo company has used the Mayo Clinic name to help market a product or service. In most instances, the company is referring to Mayo Clinic research and trying to suggest that these research findings support the use of their product. And far too often, the products have not been thoroughly researched, nor have they been approved by the FDA.

This type of unauthorized use of the Mayo Clinic name should not be misconstrued as an endorsement or support for a particular product, service or company.

Some specific examples that have generated an unusually high number of inquiries are:

Nutri-Health Supplements distributed a publication via direct mail called “The Doctor’s Sinus Relief Report” which promotes their “Flora Source Sinus” supplement product. There are several references to Mayo Clinic throughout the publication that suggest that Mayo Clinic research demonstrates the need and/or validity of their product. Mayo Clinic does not support the use of this product in any fashion.

True Health distributed a publication via direct mail called “Journal of Bowel Health” which promotes their “Dr. Cutler’s Ultimate Colon Care Formula”. A splash on the front cover of the publication claims “Mayo Clinic research reveals hidden warning signs in your poop!” and tries to suggest a need for their product. Mayo Clinic does not support the use of this product in any way.

Mayo Clinic did not authorize our name being used in these advertisements and does not support these advertising claims. If you have any questions about any commercial advertisements or other marketing materials that make use of the Mayo Clinic name or brand, please e-mail businessrelations@mayo.edu.

You may also find helpful information on our consumer health web site MayoClinic.com.