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Attorney General Jeff Landry is cautioning Louisiana consumers to watch out for misleading sales tactics from companies selling over-the-counter hearing aids.

Hearing aids are critical medical devices that benefit people of all ages. However, since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) relaxed restrictions on hearing aid sales, dozens of companies have entered the over-the-counter hearing aid market. The problem is many are selling poor sound amplifiers, and not FDA-approved medical devices.

“Technological innovations can be a great thing for consumers, especially when it comes to improving their quality of life while lowering their costs,” Landry said. “However, Louisiana patients in the marketplace should be mindful that some sellers pushing ‘innovations’ may not have the best of intentions.”

Companies may market their products as being “FDA registered” to imply approval or endorsement; but, a registered product does not equate to being an FDA-approved product. The FDA recently issued a bulletin warning firms that are misrepresenting their products in such ways. The best way to ensure your hearing aid is legitimate is to seek guidance from a medical professional.

Landry also offered the following tips for Louisiana patients looking to purchase an over-the-counter hearing device:

• Know that the FDA has not approved any over-the-counter hearing aids.
• Research the seller on the Better Business Bureau website or another objective consumer review site.
• Consider getting a screening and opinion from a hearing specialist.
• Remember that if a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is.

For more consumer safety tips, visit www.agjefflandry.com or call Landry’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-351-4889.