In April 2011, the drug Lipostabil, whose active principle is phosphatidylcholine, used to reduce localized fat in cosmetic procedures, was banned in Brazil by Anvisa (National Agency for Sanitary Vigilance). This is because Anvisa still wants to regulate and restrict the use of this substance.
Anvisa alerts everyone that the use of this medicine has not yet been authorized in Brazil because of the lack of scientific research related to indications and long-term adverse effects that may occur with its use, and that localized fat reduction is not proven scientifically.
Lipostabil is distributed by Aventis Pharma, Italy and according to Anvisa any company that sells the product will be assessed and may receive fines. And in extreme cases, the establishments may be terminated.
