Controversies

Yunnan Baiyao toothpaste containing prescription drug tranexamic acid sparks false advertising lawsuit

In October 2018, media and consumers noted that Yunnan Baiyao toothpaste contained the prescription hemostatic ingredient tranexamic acid, questioning its safety with long-term use and the claim that it “contains active ingredients of Yunnan Baiyao.” A lawyer in Changsha sued Yunnan Baiyao for false advertising. Yunnan Baiyao responded that tranexamic acid is not a prohibited raw material in toothpaste and that its addition complied with regulations. In April 2019, a Changsha court ruled that this did not constitute false advertising and that the product had no quality defects, dismissing the plaintiff’s claims; the incident nonetheless sparked discussion about regulation of “cosmeceutical” toothpaste.