"Be really careful"... Why a pharmacist warned about "this supplement" [Health Issue]

According to Financial News, advertisements for supplements claiming health benefits have recently flooded the market, and misleading information is spreading alongside them. Critics warn that products whose effectiveness has not been scientifically proven are being dressed up with artificial intelligence (AI) technology and then circulated through social networking service (SNS) platforms.
The YouTube channel "Pharmacist’s Medicine Stories" recently featured a discussion where four pharmacists gathered to talk about trending supplements. Pharmacist Park So-yoon, who is active under the nickname "Dasik Pharmacist," began by saying, "I was absolutely shocked when I saw a recent advertisement."
The product Park referred to was an "intravaginal PDRN" supplement that claimed to support women’s reproductive health. The advertisement asserted that it promotes the growth of vaginal epithelial cells and helps keep the reproductive organs healthy. It also included a supposed user testimonial from a woman, but this turned out not to be a real case and was instead fabricated using AI.
Park stated, "In Korea, there are only two types of medicines and medical devices that are actually approved for intravaginal use." She pointed out, "Despite this, a huge number of products are advertised on SNS as if they can be used inside the vagina."
A key feature of these falsely advertised products is that they hide crucial information from consumers, often in very small print. Park noted, "When you open the instructions for the 'intravaginal PDRN' product, it only says something vague like 'apply to the necessary area.'" She added, "Medicines or medical devices that are truly approved for intravaginal use clearly include anatomical illustrations of the female reproductive system."
If a purchased product does not explicitly state that it is "suitable for intravaginal use," it is not an approved product. In other words, it has not undergone proper safety testing, and using it blindly can lead to side effects.
The surge of such products is tied to the current popularity of Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN). This ingredient consists of DNA fragments extracted from salmon testes and is known for promoting cell regeneration. It is widely used in dermatology, particularly for restoring the skin barrier and improving elasticity.
However, using products whose intravaginal safety has not been verified can increase the risk of inflammation and bacterial infection. The vaginal mucosa is thinner and more sensitive than the skin. Therefore, experts stress that women should consult a gynecologist before using such products.
hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter