Weight loss product adulteration

FDA has issued a warning on Que She brand herbal weight-loss product, which is sold as a supplement but actually contains unlabeled drug ingredients that may negatively affect cardiovascular health. Advertised as a Slimming Factor Capsule and as an all-natural Chinese herbal blend, the product is sold via the internet and some retail locations.

FDA reported the product contains the stimulant Fen-Phen principal compound fenfluramine; the beta blocker propranolol, which can adversely affect people with asthma or heart conditions; the appetite suppressant sibutramine, a controlled substance linked to increased risk of heart attack and stroke in people with history of cardiovascular disease; and the stimulant ephedrine, which is well-known in natural health circles as a derivative of the ephedra herb, which was banned years ago by FDA.

The agency advised consumers to immediately stop taking this product and consult their doctor. It urged consumers and health care professionals to report any associated adverse events related to the MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program, either at www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm or (800)-FDA-1088.