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FDA Warns against Presence of Controlled Substances in Weight-Loss Products

The Food and Drug Administration is warning against the presence of controlled substances in weight loss products and the use of a popular brand  of slimming capsules and slimming gels because these contain a controlled substance that has been removed from the market for safety reasons.

The Food and Drug Administration has confirmed through lab tests that the following slimming products including capsules and gels are not safe for consumers to use.  These include

• Slim Forte slimming capsules
• Slim Forte slimming gel
• Botanical slimming soft gel

These weight-loss products were distributed by InterCharm Inc.  These products were also sold through websites.  According to the Food and Drug Administration, people who use these products may be at risk of adverse health effects, because they contain a product called sibutramine.

Sibutramine is a controlled substance that can cause a substantial increase in blood pressure.  It can also increase pulse rate, and could increase the health risks for patients who suffer from pre-existing problems, like coronary heart disease and hypertension.  People who suffer from congestive heart failure or stroke may also be at risk from additional health effects if they use these slimming gels and capsules.  Sibutramine was removed from the American market in 2000 because of its health risks.

Not only is sibutramine linked to a number of health effects, but it can also interact with other medications that a person is taking, contributing to even more dangerous results.

The Food and Drug Administration is warning American consumers about controlled substances in weight loss products and are advising consumers who are currently using these gels and capsules to discard these immediately.  Also look out for any side effects from these products.  If you notice any of these side effects, contact a medical care professional immediately.

• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Flushing
• Joint pain
• Insomnia
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Stomach upset
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Strange taste in the mouth
• Increase in blood pressure

If you notice any of the following symptoms and side effects, contact emergency medical care immediately.

• Unexplained fever
• Chest pain
• Seizures
• Fainting spells
• Jaundice
• Urinating problems
• Bruising
• Bleeding
• Blurred vision

The Food and Drug Administration and Los Angeles product liability attorneys are also warning about the increasing popularity of products that are marketed as herbal and nutritional supplements, but which contain possibly dangerous substances.  There have been a number of recent recalls that have involved products that were initially marketed as dietary or herbal, but contained substances that the Food And Drug Administration has warned against.  Very often, these products are promoted for weight loss, bodybuilding and sexual enhancement.

The Food and Drug Administration does not have the authority to test all products that are marketed as nutritional or dietary supplements.  Therefore, consumers must take care to avoid products that are labeled as “all natural” and must ensure that these products are completely safe for use.  Just because something is labeled “100% natural” or “herbal” doesn’t mean it’s safe to use.

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