Carson City, NV – Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford has issued a consumer alert regarding the marketing of certain over-the-counter hearing aids. Traditionally, hearing aids require prescription and fitting by a healthcare professional, but some devices are now available without consultation, potentially leaving consumers unaware of associated risks.
“Hearing loss can be debilitating in many ways and many Nevadans are looking for affordable solutions,” said AG Ford. “Our goal is to make sure Nevada consumers are able to make informed choices understanding the difference between FDA approved medical devices and sound amplifiers, which may not address their actual hearing needs.”
Some over-the-counter devices display “FDA Registration Certificates” resembling official documents with the FDA logo. These certificates might appear alongside device photos on websites, misleadingly suggesting FDA approval.
Companies must register and list medical devices with the FDA; however, this only indicates that information has been provided to the FDA. It does not signify FDA approval or clearance. Consumers can verify listed medical devices through the FDA’s Medical Devices Database.
Attorney General Ford reminds consumers seeking hearing aid products to consult qualified audiologists for testing, especially during National Speech-Language-Hearing Month in May.
