Licence to Deceive

It’s the kind of drugstore remedy that sounds great: Nighton says it relieves kids’ fever, pain and inflammation, with no side effects and no dyes. It’s even licensed by Health Canada as safe and effective. And yet, there is absolutely no scientific proof Nighton works as it has no active ingredients. In fact, Nighton is really nothing. We know: We made it up. So how can a fake product get a very real government licence to make powerful claims? In this investigation into drugstore remedies and their claims, Marketplace raises serious questions about the government agency that is supposed to keep you safe and healthy. The investigation uncovers a troubling lack of oversight for some over-the-counter remedies and a lack of scientific proof behind some claims. Pharmaceutical drugs require years of research before they are approved for sale. But Health Canada allows natural health product manufacturers to make similar health claims based on traditional medicine or homeopathic use, instead of scientific evidence. After the story aired, Health Canada announced a change in policy.