1004. Misbranding of Stero-Uteroids. XT. S. v. 5 Cartons of Stero-Uteroids. De-
fault decree of condemnation and destruction, with provision for the re-
lease of a portion of the product to the Food and Drue Administration.
(F. D. C. No. 9546.   Sample No. 37824-F.)
On or about March 24, 1943, the United States attorney for the Northern
District of Illinois filed a libel against 5 cartons, each containing 2 tubes, of Stero-
Uteroids at Chicago, 111., alleging that the article had been shipped in interstate
commerce by Charles A. Ainsworth, of Ainsworth Specialty Co., from Kansas City,
Mo., within the period from on or about July 24, 1941, to October 17, 1942; and
charging that it was misbranded.
Analysis showed that the article consisted essentially of small proportions
of zinc sulfate, plant material (including alkaloid-bearing drugs), and a trace
of iodine incorporated in a base of ichthammol and wool fat.
It was alleged to be misbranded in that it would be dangerous to health when
used in the dosage and with the frequency prescribed, recommended, and sug-
gested in the labeling, in that the name of the article, "Stero-Uteroids," and the
directions, "Apply with catheter under aseptic conditions," which appeared in
the labeling of some of the packages, represented and suggested the introduction
of the article into the uterus, whereas the article, when introduced into the
uterus was dangerous to health. It was alleged to be misbranded further in
that the statement, "Stero-Uteroids," appearing on all the packages, and "Direc-
tions: Apply with catheter under aseptic conditions. For administration by
physician only," appearing on some of the packages, were misleading since the
statements represented and suggested that the article was a safe medicament
for introduction into the uterus, whereas it was not a safe medicament, and its
label failed to reveal the material fact that if so introduced it would endanger
health and life.
On May 8, 1943, no claimant having appeared, judgment of condemnation was
entered and the product was ordered destroyed. On June 30, 1943, an amended
order was entered which provided for the release of a portion of the product to
the Food and Drug Administration.
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