The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning that consumers not take over-the-counter weight loss aids, coffees, and teas because 20 were found to contain the prescription drug, sibutramine. That is the same active ingredient that was found in a drug pulled off store shelves last October, Meridia. Meridia was found to increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and to increase blood pressure. For patients who already have heart conditions, drugs such as A-Slim 100% Natural Slimming Capsules or P57 Hoodia can present an additional risk for heart failure, stroke, and arrhythmia. The supplements may also interfere with medications the person has been prescribed.
Other tainted supplements include PhentaBurn Slimming Capsules and Dream Body Slimming Capsules and they are often labeled as “100% Natural,” reports Fair Warning. According to the FDA, a consumer should stop taking the pills, tea, or coffee and throw away the supplements.
If you are experiencing symptoms of heart problems or an irregular heartbeat after taking the slimming supplements, the FDA advises you seek medical attention immediately.
It is increasingly common for supplements to contain some amount of prescription medication and the FDA continues to send warning letters to supplement makers after several health problems and deaths have been linked to the supplements. The dietary supplement industry self-regulates, but sexual enhancement, weight-loss, and muscle building supplements have flooded the market and threatened the honest marketers who put out quality supplements and vitamins.
You can report the adverse event online at: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
If you have been harmed by a defective product, an experienced Jacksonville product liability lawyer can help you explore your options including the filing of a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer, distributor, and anyone in the supply line to seek compensation.
Source: http://www.fairwarning.org/2011/10/fda-issues-warning-over-20-drug-laced-weight-loss-aids/; http://news.consumerreports.org/health/2011/10/20-weight-loss-supplements-contain-undeclared-drug-fda-warns.html
