Medical societies urge ban on compounded hormonal implants in Brazil

Twelve national and international medical and scientific entities are calling on Brazil’s National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) to implement a total ban on compounded hormonal implants, popularly known as “beauty chips.” The request was formalized in the Rio de Janeiro Letter during the 20th World Menopause Congress.

Signatories include the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabology (SBEM), the Brazilian Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (Febrasgo), and the International Menopause Society (IMS). These organizations warn that the implants—often marketed for menopause symptoms, libido enhancement, weight loss, and muscle gain—lack high-quality clinical studies to prove their benefits or ensure safety.

Anvisa currently maintains restrictions prohibiting the sale and use of compounded hormonal implants based on anabolic steroids or androgenic hormones for aesthetic purposes, muscle mass gain, or sports performance. Medical experts warn that the term “beauty chip” creates a false perception of ease and safety regarding substances that significantly affect the body.

In cases where implants are clinically indicated, Anvisa requires a prescription from a legally qualified physician using a special control prescription that includes the corresponding CID (International Classification of Diseases) code. Patients must also be informed of risks and sign a responsibility and clarification term.