Recent studies show that
many people are seriously injured by the use of ephedrine
(ephedra). They are often unaware that ephedra suppliers are can
make wide ranging health claims about the product that have no scientific
basis. Nor is there any mention of the potential for dangerous
side effects. Because the industry was lobbyed to pass a law deregulating
ephedrine (ephedra)
products in l994, the FDA has been unable to regulate ephedrine
(ephedra) products.
Ephedra is one of the most
dangerous of the dietary supplements. Over 800 injuries have been
reported by users and doctors to the FDA and various state medical
bodies, including more than 50 deaths. Most of these cases involve
the heart attacks or high blood pressure leading to bleeding in the
brain or stroke.
FDA statement on ephedrine (ephedra)
"FDA is warning
consumers not to purchase or consume ephedrine-containing dietary
supplements with labels that often portray the products as apparent
alternatives to illegal street drugs such as "ecstasy."
Possible adverse effects of ephedrine range from clinically significant
effects such as heart attack, stroke, seizures, psychosis, and death,
to clinically less significant effects that may indicate the potential
for more serious effects (for example, dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal
distress, irregular heartbeat, and heart palpitations). Ingredient
panels on these products may list Ma Huang, Chinese ephedra, Ma Huang
extract, Ephedra, Ephedra sinica, ephedra extract, ephedra herb powder,
or epitonin, all of which indicate a source of ephedrine."
|
" Ephedra is one of the most dangerous
of the dietary supplements" |
