This week, the Department of Health issued a warning against the sale and consumption of products falsely claiming to treat COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus.
       Sodium chlorite and chlorine dioxide (clorito de sodio and dióxido de cloro in Spanish) are prohibited for medical or therapeutic use in Costa Rica.
       “There is no scientific evidence to support the use of these substances to treat COVID-19 or other diseases,” the ministry said. “Its use puts the health of people who consume or are about to consume them at serious risk.”
       Viviana Ramos, director of Costa Rica’s National Poison Center, told El Pais that the center now receives 10 calls a day about these compounds.
       However, ingesting them can cause severe irritation of the mouth, esophagus and stomach with nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Respiratory complications and serious problems with the blood, cardiovascular system and kidneys are also possible, the health ministry said.
       “Do not use chlorine dioxide or sodium chlorite-based products in patients with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 or in any other situation,” the ministry said. “Consumption of these substances can cause serious health problems, some of which are life-threatening. “
       Sodium chlorite and chlorine dioxide are sold under the following names: Miracle Mineral Solution, Master Mineral Solution, Miracle Mineral Supplement, MMS, MMS Clorito de Sodio, Solución de dióxido de cloro, CDS, CDS Dióxido de Cloro.
       The Department of Health’s latest warning echoes one issued by the US Food and Drug Administration in April 2020 (as well as a similar rumor-debunking message from the Australian government).
       “The FDA is concerned that we continue to see chlorine dioxide products being marketed with misleading claims that they are safe and effective in treating diseases, including COVID-19. The sale of these products may harm public health and delay needed medical care,” the FDA Commissioner said. Stephen Hahn.
       The FDA says chlorine dioxide products have not been shown to be safe or effective for any use, including COVID-19.
       “When acid is added, the [sodium chlorite] mixture turns into chlorine dioxide, a powerful bleaching agent that can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects,” the FDA explains.