A class action lawsuit alleges that the vitamin E supplements sold by CVS Pharmacy falsely claim they are beneficial to “heart health.” In fact, the suit claims, the vast majority of scientific studies show that vitamin E has no affect on the cardiovascular system. Vitamin E particularly does not reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attack, or death from cardiovascular disease, as purported on the labels of CVS brand supplements, which state: Vitamin E helps maintain healthy blood vessels and heart health. Vitamin E also helps the immune system.
The lawsuit was filed in a Rhode Island court by Ronda Kaufman on behalf of herself and those similarly situated. CVS is a Rhode Island corporation and has the most pharmacies of any store in the United States. CVS vitamin E supplements bearing the “heart health” label come in seven forms. The products are sold online and at over 7,600 CVS outlets for between $8 and $20. CVS has one of the most successful “royalty rewards” programs with its customers, and CVS brand products account for about 18% of all store revenue, outside of prescriptions.
Plaintiff Kaufman asserts she read and believed the labels on CVS vitamin E supplements that touted “heart health” benefits. Yet, the suit contends CVS has misled its customers. The overwhelming majority of scientific studies find absolutely no evidence that vitamin E supplements protect consumers’ hearts or reduce the risk of heart disease whatsoever. The legal complaint provides a detailed list of published studies, which would have been readily available to CVS, that refute claims of vitamin E’s potential “heart health” benefits.
The lawsuit alleges that because heart disease is such a prevalent problem, and the leading cause of death in the United States, CVS preyed on the legitimate health concerns of the public by falsely advertising one of its products. State laws require CVS and all retailers to refrain from false, deceptive, and misleading advertising that exceeds or contradicts regulations of the FDA.
Article Type: LawsuitTopic: Consumer
Most Recent Case Event
Complaint Says CVS Supplements Falsely Claim Heart Health
May 2, 2014
The complaint for this class action lawsuit alleges that the vitamin E supplements sold by CVS Pharmacy falsely claim they are beneficial to “heart health.” In fact, the suit claims, the vast majority of scientific studies show that vitamin E has no affect on the cardiovascular system.
cvs_vitamin_e_complaint.pdfCase Event History
Complaint Says CVS Supplements Falsely Claim Heart Health
May 2, 2014
The complaint for this class action lawsuit alleges that the vitamin E supplements sold by CVS Pharmacy falsely claim they are beneficial to “heart health.” In fact, the suit claims, the vast majority of scientific studies show that vitamin E has no affect on the cardiovascular system.
cvs_vitamin_e_complaint.pdf