FDA URGES CONSUMERS TO STOP USING HYDROXYCUT PRODUCTS IMMEDIATELY
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received 23 reports of serious liver injuries linked to Hydroxycut products. Consequently, Hydroxycut products, which are dietary supplements used for weight loss and energy enhancement, are being recalled.
The FDA has warned consumers to immediately stop using 14 Hydroxycut products manufactured by Iovate Health Sciences: Hydroxycut Regular Rapid Release Caplets, Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Rapid Release Caplets, Hydroxycut Hardcore Liquid Caplets, Hydroxycut Max Liquid Caplets, Hydroxycut Regular Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Hardcore Drink Packets (Ignition Stix), Hydroxycut Max Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Liquid Shots, Hydroxycut Hardcore RTDs (Ready-to-drink), Hydroxycut Max Aqua Shed, Hydroxycut 24, Hydroxycut Carb Control, and Hydroxycut Natural.
"The FDA urges consumers to discontinue use of Hydroxycut products in order to avoid any undue risks. Adverse events are rare, but exist. Consumers should consult a physician or other health care professional if they experience symptoms possibly associated with these products," said Dr. Linda Katz, interim chief medical officer of the FDA's Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
The FDA reports that at least one death has been linked to Hydroxycut. A 19 year old man from the southwestern United States died in 2007. His death was reported to the FDA in March. Other serious liver problems include liver damage that resulted in a transplant in 2002, liver failure, jaundice, seizures and cardiovascular problems. While liver damage is rare, people who have experienced problems were taking doses recommended on the product label. Symptoms include brown urine, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, stomach pain, itching, and light-colored stool.
Manufacturers do not need to register a product with the FDA or get approval before selling a supplement. Iovate, the manufacturer of Hydroxycut, has voluntarily agreed to the recall of products from the market until further determinations can be made.
The Law Offices of Jeffrey J. Kroll has extensive experience in litigating products liability cases. If you have been injured by a defective product, please contact us.
