GOLO Lawsuit: A Brief Explanation
- GOLO faced a class action lawsuit in 2021 for misleading marketing of its weight loss supplements. The suit alleged false claims about disease treatment, poor instructions, and unverified 'clinically proven' statements, seeking damages for affected consumers.
GOLO became the defendant in a class action lawsuit filed in 2021. A manufacturer of diet and weight loss supplements, GOLO was faced with scrutiny over claims that it engaged in deceptive marketing to sell its products.
In this article, we’ll look at what GOLO sells, how they sell it, and why they’re facing a class action lawsuit. We’ll also uncover the latest updates in the GOLO lawsuit.
What Is GOLO?
GOLO is a weight loss company that markets itself as a holistic health and wellness program. It was founded in 2009 with the goal of helping individuals achieve sustainable weight loss.
Insulin resistance is a key component of GOLO’s philosophy. According to GOLO, insulin is tied to metabolism, body weight, aging, and general health. GOLO claims that its supplements are a safer and more effective alternative to diet plans or injection drugs.
GOLO’s program combines a dietary supplement called Release with a meal plan designed to regulate insulin levels and promote fat loss through balanced metabolism.
What Is The Lawsuit Against GOLO?
The lawsuit against GOLO is a class action. It was filed by lead plaintiff Vincenzza Bubak individually and on behalf of other GOLO consumers. In general, plaintiffs claimed that GOLO had engaged in deceptive marketing practices to mislead consumers about the effectiveness of its products. The lawsuit sought damages to be paid to class members who purchased products from GOLO.
Allegations Against GOLO
Plaintiffs in the GOLO lawsuit made three allegations:
- GOLO implied its products could cure or mitigate disease
- GOLO provided consumers with inadequate instructions to use its products
- GOLO made misleading claims that its products were “clinically proven”
Implied Disease Claims
Federal laws on dietary supplements make it illegal to promote a dietary supplement with claims that it can “mitigate, treat, cure, or prevent a specific disease or class of diseases.” Plaintiffs claimed that GOLO’s marketing of its products to address “Insulin Resistance” implied an ability to treat several diseases related to insulin imbalance, such as diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
Inadequate Instructions Claims
Next, plaintiffs claimed that GOLO failed to provide instructions for using its products that met regulatory standards. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires drugs to include directions that would allow a regular person to make safe and effective use of the drug. Plaintiffs claimed that GOLO offered products for health conditions that should not be self-diagnosed or treated by laypersons. Therefore, they claimed the directions were inadequate.
Clinically Proven Claims
Finally, plaintiffs claimed that GOLO engaged in misleading advertising by claiming its products are “clinically proven” to work. While GOLO relied on some pilot studies to bolster their claims, plaintiffs alleged this is not sufficient to use the “clinically proven” language. Such claims typically require peer reviewed clinical studies, which GOLO’s products had not undergone.
Laws at Issue in the GOLO Lawsuit
The GOLO lawsuit alleged multiple violations of both federal law and California state law. The laws at issue included:
- California Consumers Legal Remedies Act
- California False Advertising Law
- Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
- California Sherman Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Law
Lawsuits involving drugs and dietary supplements often cite a variety of state and federal laws. Working with a lawyer familiar with dangerous drugs, consumer protection, or defective products law can help you build a strong case. Fill out the form on this page to get help today.
Current Status of the GOLO Lawsuit
In January 2024, the judge approved GOLO’s motion to dismiss. As a result, the class action lawsuit was dismissed and judgment was entered in favor of GOLO. So far, no new class action lawsuits have been filed on behalf of consumers who have used GOLO products.
Other Dangerous Drug Lawsuits
While the class action lawsuit against GOLO was dismissed, that lawsuit was only one of several legal actions filed against diet supplement companies and drug manufacturers. Here are a few notable examples:
- Hydroxycut. Several lawsuits, including class actions in the US and Canada were filed against the maker of Hydroxycut. Many of the lawsuits were settled for confidential amounts.
- Ozempic. As of February 2024, at least 55 lawsuits against the makers of Ozempic had been consolidated into one multidistrict litigation. The lawsuits allege that manufacturers failed to warn doctors and patients of potential serious side effects.
- Tylenol. Multidistrict litigation is pending against the makers of Tylenol over claims that using the drug during pregnancy could cause previously undisclosed side effects impacting children, such as development of autism or ADHD.
- Sensa. In 2014, the marketers of Sensa agreed to pay $26.5 million in a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over claims the company deceived consumers with invalid weight-loss promises.
Cases like these have the potential to secure millions for harmed consumers. Claims need to be valid and it helps to discuss your individual situation with a qualified lawyer to know what your case may be worth. Fill out the form on this page to connect with a knowledgeable lawyer near you.
