The Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers that three weight loss supplements sold online and in some retail stores contain dangerous pharmaceutical ingredients hidden from consumers, and should be thrown away.
The supplements-- called LX1, Mezo, and Best Line Suplemento Alimenticio-- are part of a growing trend of dietary supplements sold for weight loss and sexual enhancement, usually advertised as "herbal" or "all natural," which really contain pharmaceutical ingredients.
According to FDA testing, LX1 contains undeclared DMAA, also known as 1,3-dimethylamylamine, methylhexanamine or geranium extract. DMAA, an amphetamine derivative, is an illegal ingredient often sold in products that claim to boost energy, burn fat or build muscle. It can "can elevate blood pressure and lead to cardiovascular problems ranging from shortness of breath and tightening in the chest to heart attack,"according to the FDA.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use LX1, a product promoted and sold for weight loss on various websites, including Dr. Skin Secrets
, and possibly in some retail stores.
, and possibly in some retail stores.
FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that LX1 contains undeclared DMAA, also known as 1,3-dimethylamylamine, methylhexanamine or geranium extract. Ingestion of DMAA can elevate blood pressure and could lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, shortness of breath and tightening of the chest.
Consumers should stop using this product immediately and throw it away. Consumers who have experienced any negative side effects should consult a health care professional as soon as possible.
Health care professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:
- Complete and submit the report online: MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form
- Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178
Note: This notification is to inform the public of a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals. These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.” FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients. Consumers should exercise caution before purchasing any product in the above categories.
