Homeopathic remedies all over the nation have been regulated by the FDA in a manner similar to over-the-counter (OTC) drugs since 1938. Unlike prescription drugs and OTC drugs, which "must undergo thorough testing and review by the FDA for safety and effectiveness before they can be sold" homeopathic remedies do not, much like nutritional and herbal supplements (FDA Regulations on homeopathic medicine, 2010, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine). The manufacturers of homeopathic drugs are also "exempt from good manufacturing practice requirements related to expiration dating and from finished product testing for identity and strength" (Homeopathy, 2010, Citizendum)
Homeopathic drugs may be purchased without a physician's prescription. A 1988 federal law mandates the treatment for which they are designed to be used is recorded on the label, along with ingredients, dilutions, and instructions for safe use (FDA Regulations on homeopathic medicine, 2010, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine)....
Homeopathic substances sold over-the-counter must, by law, be nontoxic in their correctly diluted form, although the principle of homeopathy is that a slightly toxic dose of something that is heavily diluted can promote healing. The Council on Homeopathic Education is the only organization that accredits training programs in classical homeopathy. Individuals who wish to get further information about what remedies are likely to benefit them should seek assistance from graduates from accredited programs (Homeopathy, 2010, Citizendum).
References
FDA Regulations on homeopathic medicine. (2010). National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Retrieved January 15, 2010 at http://www.answers.com/topic/homeopathy
Homeopathy. (2009). Citizendum. Retrieved January 15, 2010 at http://en.citizendium.org/wiki/Homeopathy
Scofield, Edward L.W. (2001, June 20). Homeopathy: Similia similibus curentur.
http://www.innominatesociety.com/Articles/Homepathy%20Similia%20Similibus%20Curentur.htm
