U.S. proposes strong warnings on ephedra products

Last Updated: Monday, March 3, 2003 | 11:02 AM ET

CBC News

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says ephedra products should bear warning labels that the pills could cause heart attacks, strokes or even death.

The FDA has linked at least 100 deaths to the herbal supplement. A medical examiner says the recent death of Baltimore Orioles' pitcher Steve Bechler was probably linked to the ephedra product he was using.

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Ephedra, also known as ma huang, is a species of herbs used in weight loss products, energy boosters and as a body-building enhancer. Ephedra can speed the heart rate and constrict blood vessels.

Ephedrine products

The FDA has warned there is no scientific evidence the stimulant helps athletic performance.

"Some ephedra products present an unreasonable risk," says FDA Commissioner Mark McClellan.

Health Canada requested a recall of certain ephedra products last January:

• all ephedra/ephedrine products having a dose unit of more than 8 mg of e phedrine or a label recommending more than 8 mg/dose or 32 mg /day and/or are labelled for use exceeding seven days
• all combination products containing Ephedra/ephedrine together with stimulants (e.g. caffeine) and other ingredients which might increase the effect of Ephedra/ephedrine in the body
• ephedra/ephedrine products with labelled or implied claims for appetite suppression, weight loss promotion, body-building effects, euphoria, increased energy or wakefulness, or other stimulant effects

Many recalled products can still be bought at health stores and over the Internet.

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Commercial ephedra/ephedrine products being sold as nasal decongestants and ephedra products marketed for traditional use, but don't contain caffeine, are still permitted in Canada.

In the U.S., ephedra is a herb and that means manufacturers can sell it over-the-counter with little oversight.

The FDA is reviewing a possible ban on ephedra products.

Metabolife International, the leading ephedra maker, says the product is safe if taken correctly.

"It is imperative consumers continue to have the choice to use these beneficial weight-loss products, safely and effectively, as millions have done," said David Brown, president of Metabolife.

Brown blamed "irresponsible marketing practices" for the misuse of the products that have lead to deaths and other problems.