Hydroxycut Liver Problems Being Reviewed by Health Canada

Following a Hydroxycut recall issued on Friday in the United States due to reports of serious liver problems, Health Canada indicates that they are also reviewing the situation and adverse reaction reports they have received involving the dietary supplements, which are not actually approved for use in Canada.

A number of products sold under the Hydroxycut name were pulled from the market by Iovate Health Sciences USA, Inc. on May 1, 2009. The natural health supplements were promoted for weight-loss, fat burning and energy enhancement.

The FDA urged all consumers to immediately stop using the products after at least 23 reports of serious Hydroxycut liver problems were identified among users of the products. The problems ranged from jaundice and other signs of liver damage to full liver failure requiring organ transplantation.

In addition to the risk of liver injury, the FDA also indicated that they were aware of other reported problems associated with Hydroxycut, including seizures, cardiovascular disorders and a rare type of muscle damage known as rhabdomyolysis.

Over the weekend, Health Canada released a statement indicating that they are also actively working with the FDA and Iovate Health Sciences regarding the matter.

Although none of the Hydroxycut products are authorized for sale in Canada, the country’s health regulator indicates that they have received 17 reports of Hydroxycut problems associated with use in Canada, including adverse reactions related to cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal and neurological problems.

Unlike in the United States, Health Canada indicates that they have not yet received any adverse reaction reports involving Hydroxycut liver injury, but they are continuing to monitor reports of problems among Canadians and will provide future updates regarding any new safety information.

Symptoms of Hydroxycut problems could surface months after the product is stopped, so consumers concerned that they may be experiencing side effects from Hydroxycut products should contact their healthcare providers.

Signs of liver injury could include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, brown urine, light-colored stools, excessive fatigue, stomach or abdominal pain, weakness, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite.

Although investigations are continuing into which ingredients cause the liver complications, a number of lawyers in the United States are already reviewing potential Hydroxycut liver damage lawsuits for individuals who have been diagnosed with problems.