Weight-loss pill may be harmful, FDA warns

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning that Que She, marketed as an herbal weight loss supplement, contains active pharmaceutical ingredients not listed on the product label that could harm consumers, especially those with cardiovascular conditions.People who have purchased Que She should stop taking the product immediately and consult a doctor, the FDA said. Que She is advertised as a "Slimming Factor Capsule" and as "an all-natural blend of Chinese herbs." It has been widely distributed on the Internet and at retail outlets. An FDA analysis of Que She found that it contains: Fenfluramine - a stimulant drug withdrawn from the U.S. market in 1997 after studies demonstrated that it caused serious heart valve damage; Propranolol - a prescription beta blocker drug that can pose a risk to people with bronchial asthma and certain heart conditions; Sibutramine - a controlled substance and prescription weight loss drug, sibutramine was the subject of a recent study whose preliminary findings showed an association between sibutramine use and increased risk of heart and stroke in patients who have a history of heart disease; Ephedrine - a stimulant drug that is legally marketed over-the-counter for temporary relief of asthma but can pose a risk to people with certain cardiovascular conditions. These active pharmaceutical ingredients may interact with other medications and result in a serious "adverse event," the FDA warned.

********** Published: July 22, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 14