Those taking the weight loss product known as Fat Zero should be aware that it includes sibutramine, a prescription diet drug that has been pulled off the U.S. market by the Food and Drug Administration due to its dangerous side effects.
Although Fat Zero claims to be safe due to its so-called natural ingredients, the sibutramine in it can damage the heart and is known to substantially increase blood pressure and/or pulse rate in some patients. It also affects several brain chemicals, including serotonin and norepinephrine, and can actually increase appetite in some people.
Fat Zero "may present a significant risk for patients with a history of coronary heart disease, congestive heart failure arrhythmias, or stroke," said the FDA in a notice to consumers. "This product may also interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking."
Unlike prescription drugs, supplements and herbal products are not regulated by the FDA before they are sold. So long as makers don't make specific healthy claims, they can sell products made with ingredients that are "generally recognized as safe." But the FDA can test these products and warn the public if potentially dangerous ingredients are found. Read the full details here:
Diet products contain dangerous drugs, FDA warns
Losing weight is never worth taking drugs that might kill you. Fat Zero and other “quick weight loss remedies” almost always turn out to be more detrimental to your health than the extra pounds. Instead, eat right and exercise; for the majority of people, that will more than sufficiently keep those unwanted pounds at bay.
If you or someone you love has been injured by a defective product, drug, or malpractice, call the professionals at Crandall & Pera Law for a free case evaluation.