Public Notification: Exhilarate contains hidden drug ingredients

[6-6-2016] The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use Exhilarate, a product promoted and sold for weight loss on various websites and in some retail stores. Image of Exhilarate

FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that Exhilarate contains sibutramine and desmethylsibutramine. Sibutramine is a controlled substance that was removed from the market in October 2010 for safety reasons. Desmethylsibutramine is a substance structurally similar to sibutramine. The product poses a threat to consumers because sibutramine is known to substantially increase blood pressure and/or pulse rate in some patients and may present a significant risk for patients with a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke. This product may also interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking.

Laboratory analysis also confirmed that Exhilarate contains phenolphthalein. Phenolphthalein is a chemical that is not an active ingredient in any approved drug in the United States. Studies have indicated that it presents a cancer-causing risk.

Health care professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

Complete and submit the report online MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form, or:
Download and complete the form, then submit it via fax at 1-800-FDA-0178.

Note: This notification is to inform the public of a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals. These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.” FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients. Consumers should exercise caution before purchasing any product in the above categories.

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