The US Food and Drug Administration has raised serious concerns about a controversial botanical extract being promoted in Washington circles as a potential COVID-19 treatment, despite what regulators call a complete lack of scientific evidence.
What is Oleandrin?
Oleandrin is a chemical derived from the highly toxic oleander plant. The substance has gained attention after being promoted by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a prominent supporter of former President Donald Trump, who reportedly presented the treatment at the White House.
According to FDA documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request, the agency has expressed significant safety concerns about the substance being marketed as a dietary supplement or COVID-19 remedy.
Serious Safety Warnings
The FDA has identified multiple red flags regarding oleandrin:
- Toxicity concerns: The oleander plant is known to be poisonous
- Lack of evidence: No reliable scientific data supports its use against COVID-19
- Safety issues: Potential for serious side effects and interactions
In internal communications, FDA officials stated they would take enforcement action against any company making COVID-19 treatment claims about oleandrin without proper authorisation.
Political Connections Raise Concerns
The promotion of oleandrin has drawn particular scrutiny due to its political connections. Mike Lindell, the MyPillow founder and prominent Trump supporter, has been actively advocating for the substance and reportedly arranged a White House meeting to promote it to then-President Trump.
This has raised questions about whether political pressure could influence regulatory decisions, though the FDA has maintained its scientific stance on the matter.
European Regulatory Position
European health authorities are also monitoring the situation closely. The European Medicines Agency has not approved oleandrin for any medical use, and health experts across the continent have echoed the FDA's concerns about the lack of evidence for COVID-19 treatment claims.
British health officials have reinforced that only properly tested and authorised treatments should be used against coronavirus, warning against unproven remedies.
The Bottom Line for Consumers
Health authorities on both sides of the Atlantic urge the public to avoid oleandrin products making COVID-19 treatment claims. The substance remains unapproved and potentially dangerous, with no credible evidence supporting its effectiveness against the virus.
Consumers seeking COVID-19 treatments should consult healthcare professionals and rely only on medicines approved by proper regulatory authorities.
