Ephedrine and caffeine diet pills dangerous
OTTAWA - Consumers should avoid taking any combination of ephedrine and caffeine because of the risk of serious and possibly fatal side-effects, Health Canada warns.
In an advisory this week, the federal department said two particular products pose potential health risks: WestPharm Hydro-Lean capsules and a combination of 4Ever Fit ephedrine and caffeine pills.
Canadians with heart conditions, high blood pressure and diabetes are among those at greatest risk.
When used in combination with caffeine and other stimulants, ephedrine has caused reported adverse events that range from dizziness, tremors, headaches and heart rate irregularities to seizures, psychosis, heart attacks and stroke.
One adverse reaction suspected to be related to the use of Hydro-Lean has been reported to Health Canada. Symptoms in that case included an elevated heart rate and general discomfort.
WestPharm Hydro-Lean has not been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness or quality and is not authorized for sale in Canada. However, the product is distributed via the Internet and may have been brought into Canada either by personal importation or other means.
Health Canada is working with the Canada Border Services Agency to prohibit importation of the product.
Although packaged in separate bottles, 4Ever Fit ephedrine and caffeine pills are sold together in a convenience pack. Ephedrine and caffeine are authorized in Canada as separate products, but are not authorized to be sold or taken in combination.
The 4Ever Fit Convenience Pack has been recalled from retailers by the Canadian distributor, 4Ever Fit.
Anyone who has used these, or any other products containing ephedrine and stimulants such as caffeine, should stop consuming them, Health Canada says.
