Formulated Sciences Discontinues Ephedra Product

LAGUNA HILLS--Formulated Sciences Inc. (FS) announced today that it would temporarily stop distributing Duzoxin, a trademarked formula that contains ephedra. The company stated that this move was made to comply with the National Football League's (NFL) proposed ban on ephedra-based supplements. Duzoxin had previously been endorsed by San Francisco 49ers wide receiver, Terrell Owens.

"Though ephedra-based supplements are still considered safe and have not been banned by the NFL or FDA [Food and Drug Administration], FS is concerned about any potential health treat to our valued customers," stated Paul Edalat, founder and president of the company (www.gotofs.com). He added that shipments of this product would be sidelined "until medical research has been finalized surrounding ephedra-related health controversies."

The recent media blitz surrounding a Northwestern football player's death may have also added to the company's recent decision. However, FS still offers on its Web site supplements that contain DHEA, a substance that is banned by NFL. Calls to the company had not been returned by press time.