Hydroxycut Lawsuits

Earlier this year, Hydroxycut dietary supplements, marketed as weight loss aids, were recalled by the manufacturer, Iovate Health Sciences USA, Inc., in cooperation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall was prompted by reports to the FDA of possible liver damage and a possible death due to liver failure among users of Hydroxycut.

The Hydroxycut brand was previously owned by Muscletech Research and Development, which is still in business marketing supplements for body builders. The Muscletech Hydroxycut formulation was withdrawn from the market when the FDA banned the stimulant ephedra, one of its principal ingredients.

Cardiovascular, Kidney Troubles Also Suspected

In addition to liver damage complaints, the Iovate Hydroxycut products recalled are suspected of causing cardiovascular symptoms and a muscular disorder than can cause kidney failure, as well as nausea and vomiting, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and acne outbreaks.

In the absence of ephedra, Hydroxycut, like many products sold as weight-loss aids, relies heavily on caffeine to increase metabolism and decrease appetite. While this could explain some reported symptoms, others are not yet fully understood.

Product Liability Lawsuits Filed

Defective product liability lawsuits have been filed in several states by Hydroxycut users who suspect the products of causing health issues. Among the first was a class action suit in Tennessee. Other litigants are choosing to pursue individual suits, not wanting to forfeit the possible advantage of arguing facts unique to their cases.

The U.S. Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Liability has consolidated pretrial proceedings of 16 cases in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of California, under Judge Barry Ted Moskowitz.

Consult a Hydroxycut Attorney

If you are a former Hydroxycut user with related health issues, you need to contact an experienced defective products liability attorney for the full story. You may be eligible for financial compensation to help you with medical bills, loss of income, and other problems you may be facing for some time to come.