FDA Reports Force Hydroxycut Recall

Hydroxycut dietary supplement products, marketed as weigh-loss aids, were recalled because of health problems reported to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is the second time the Hydroxycut brand has been in the news over health issues.

The recent recall was fueled by 23 reports to the FDA of liver problems blamed on Hydroxycut, marketed by Iovate Health Sciences USA, Inc. According to the agency, the reports cited problems from jaundice to elevated liver enzymes, a condition that can lead to liver failure. Some patients reportedly required liver transplants, and one died of liver failure.

FDA Issues Warning against Hydroxycut Use

The FDA simultaneously issued a warning against using Hydroxycut and published a statement by Iovate that it was recalling the products. The agency said those reporting health issues had used the products according to label instructions. The company stressed that its products had been used by millions of consumers with no reported negative consequences.

Products bearing the Hydroxycut name were previously marketed by Musceltech Research and Development, which is heavily involved in selling supplements used by body builders. The Muscletech version of the product was discontinued after the FDA banned the use of the stimulant ephedra, one of its main ingredients.

Products Target Stimulation, Appetite Suppression

Most dietary supplements claiming weigh-loss benefits are formulated to increase metabolism and decrease appetite. Muscletech's original Hydroxycut formula used a combination of ephedra and caffeine to achieve those ends. Iovate's subsequent formula boasted several natural ingredients, including some that were new sources of caffeine. Since the most recent recall, Iovate has again reformulated Hydroxycut; caffeine is again the signature active ingredient.

Consult a Dangerous Drugs Attorney

If using Hydroxycut has caused health issues for you or someone you know, it is imperative to engage the services of an experienced defective products liability attorney. You may be facing serious medical expense and loss of income. The right attorney will fight to see that you are compensated.