Weight Loss Drugs Recalled By FDA

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers that several weight-loss products are being recalled for containing undeclared drugs which can result in a possible life-threatening interaction if taken with other medications.

Among the weight-loss products being recalled are Jenesis, Oasis and La Trim Plus. Sellers nationwide – in stores and online – market the products as “natural aids to gain fitness and health.”

The undeclared ingredients are sibutramine, an appetite suppressant, and phenolphthalein, an ingredient once used in over-the-counter laxatives, the US Federal Drug Administration said in a news release.

Patients with a history of coronary disease, arrhythmias, stroke and other conditions are at increased risk if Sibutramine is taken as it is known to increase blood pressure. Phenolphthalein taken long-term, can cause cancer, as well as irregular heartbeat and gastrointestinal disturbances, according to the agency.

Sellers of the products tell consumers to drink more water, said Gary Coody, FDA’s national health fraud coordinator. But, what they aren’t telling consumers is that being thirsty is actually a side effect of sibutramine, he said. Moreover they try to tell you that you aren’t feeling well because your body is detoxifying when in reality, it’s your body reacting to side effects associated with sibutramine.

A complete list of recalled weight loss products can be viewed on the FDA Web site. If you have experienced any adverse reactions or problems with these products, please inform the FDA by calling 1-800-332-1088 or by using their online form.