[Update 3-3-2026] FDA also is advising consumers not to purchase or use Artri Ajo Rey, a product promoted and sold for joint pain on various websites, https://naturistarex.com/, and possibly in some retail stores.
FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Artri Ajo Rey contains dexamethasone, diclofenac and methocarbamol not listed on the product label.
Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions. Corticosteroid use can impair a person’s ability to fight infections and can cause high blood sugar levels, muscle injuries and psychiatric problems. When corticosteroids are taken for a prolonged period or at high doses, they can suppress the adrenal gland. Abrupt discontinuation can cause withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, the undeclared dexamethasone in Artri Ajo Rey may cause serious side effects when combined with other medications.
Consumers taking Artri Ajo Rey should immediately consult with their health care professional to safely discontinue use of this product. The risks of withdrawal from corticosteroids should be assessed by a health care professional. Only licensed health care professionals can evaluate patients for the risk or existence of adrenal suppression.
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs may cause increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, as well as serious gastrointestinal damage, including bleeding, ulceration and fatal perforation of the stomach and intestines. This hidden drug ingredient also may interact with other medications and significantly increase the risk of adverse events, particularly when consumers use multiple NSAID-containing products.
Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant that can cause sedation, dizziness and low blood pressure. Methocarbamol can also impair mental and physical abilities to perform certain tasks, such as driving a motor vehicle or operating machinery.
[Update 4-20-2022] FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Artri and Ortiga products as FDA has received adverse event reports, including of liver toxicity and death, associated with the use of Artri King and similarly named products. Visit our alert for more information.
[1-5-2022] The Food and Drug Administration is advising consumers not to purchase or use Artri Ajo King, a product promoted and sold for joint pain and arthritis on various websites, including www.amazon.com, and possibly in some retail stores.
FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Artri Ajo King contains diclofenac not listed on the product label. Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (commonly referred to as NSAIDs). NSAIDs may cause increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, as well as serious gastrointestinal damage, including bleeding, ulceration, and fatal perforation of the stomach and intestines. This hidden drug ingredient may also interact with other medications and significantly increase the risk of adverse events, particularly when consumers use multiple NSAID-containing products. Consumers should immediately consult a health care professional if they are experiencing any side effects.
Health care professionals and consumers should report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
Note: This notification is to inform the public of a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals. These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.” FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients. Consumers should exercise caution before purchasing any product in the above categories. For more information:
