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Product Review

Weight Loss Supplements Review (7-Keto DHEA, Forskolin and Stimulant Blend Supplements)

Choose the Best Weight Loss Supplement. Be Careful With Weight Loss Supplements — Few Pass Quality Testing and Safety Review.

Weight Loss Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Do any supplements naturally suppress appetite and help with weight loss?

Learn which natural ingredients can suppress appetite and find if these natural appetite suppressants help with weight loss.

Container of natural appetite suppressant supplement with measuring tape and scale in background

CL Answer

Can white kidney bean extract really help me lose weight?

Does white kidney bean extract help promote weight loss? Find out more including evidence from clinical studies and dosage.

White Kidney Bean Extract and Weight Loss -- White kidney beans

Product Review

Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Review (for Weight Loss)

Choose the Best Green Coffee Bean Extract. 50% of Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Don't Deliver Expected Ingredients.

Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Can zuPOO and its primary ingredient, cascara sagrada, cleanse the gut, improve digestion and help with weight management?

zuPOO is marketed for gut support and as a colon cleanser for weight management. Find out if research supports these claims and if ingredients in zuPOO are safe.

zuPOO supplement bottle with white background

Product Review

African Mango (Seed Extract) Supplements for Weight Loss Review Article

Do African Mango Supplements Really Work For Weight Loss? Learn More About Choosing the Best African Mango Supplement: Evidence, Safety, Side Effects & More.

African Mango Seed Extract

CL Answer

What is Skinny Fiber and does it really work? I see that glucomannan is a key ingredient. What is that?

Learn more about Skinny Fiber, including its key ingredient glucomannan, evidence from clinical studies, dosage info, and safety.

Skinny Fiber

Product Review

Hoodia (Hoodia gordonii) Supplements Review Article

Hoodia Supplements for Weight Loss. Will Hoodia help you lose weight? Make sure you know the facts.

CL Answer

Does forskolin help for weight loss? Is it safe?

Learn more about forskolin including weight loss, diet, preventing asthma attacks and its proposed effects on the body.

CL Answer

Does yacon syrup decrease appetite or help with weight loss? How do I find a quality brand?

Can yacon syrup can help with weight loss? Learn more, including clinical evidence, side effects, and dosage.

Yacon syrup for weight loss?

Product Review

Garcinia Cambogia (HCA) Supplements Review

Find the Best Garcinia Cambogia Supplement. Choose Carefully! Most Garcinia (HCA) Weight Loss Supplements Lack Listed Amount of Ingredient .

Garcinia Cambogia (HCA) Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Can raspberry ketone help me lose weight?

Information on raspberry ketone and whether there is evidence it can help with weight loss.

Raspberry Ketone for Weight Loss -- a raspberry and raspberry ketone capsules

CL Answer

Can supplements help me lose weight?

Learn more about weight loss supplements, including our lab test results and product comparisons.

Supplements to Lose Weight

CL Answer

Does Provitalize work for weight loss and is it safe?

Find out if taking Provitalize, a probiotic supplement that also contains turmeric extract, moringa leaf extract, curry leaf extract and piperine (BioPerine), relieves joint pain, decreases abdominal fat, or helps with weight loss.

A bottle of Provitalize

CL Answer

Will 7-keto DHEA help me lose weight?

Learn more about 7-keto DHEA supplements for weight loss, including clinical results.

7-Keto DHEA for Weight Loss? -- supplement and pills on scale

Product Review

Green Tea Review: Tea Bags, Matcha Powders, and Supplements

Some green teas provide barely any green tea polyphenols, while some others are high strength. See the Test Results and Our Top Picks for Green Tea.

Green Tea Review 2024

Product Review

Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplements Review

Choose the Best Alpha-Lipoic Acid Supplement — See the Amounts of Active "R-Isomer" We Found

News Release

February 15, 2024

Unveiling the Truth About Green Tea’s EGCG Content

White Plains, NY, February 15, 2024 —  ConsumerLab.com, a trusted name in health and wellness, sheds light on the EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) content in green tea.

Product Review

Acai Berry Supplements and Beverages Review

Find the Best Acai Berry Supplements and Beverages. See Which Acai Berry Supplements and Beverages Passed Our Tests of Quality.

Acai berry supplements and beverages reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of green tea, and is it safe?

ConsumerLab explains green tea's potential health benefits for everything from fighting cancer to helping your heart.

Cup of green tea with dried tea leaves

Product Review

Apple Cider Vinegar Review — Bottled Liquids and Supplements

Find the Best Apple Cider Vinegar. See Which Apple Cider Vinegar Liquids and Supplements Passed Our Tests of Quality.

Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Chromium Supplements Review

Chromium Supplements Review. Best Chromium Supplements Identified -- By Strength.

Chromium Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Kelp Supplements Review

Choose the Best Kelp Supplement. Be Cautious With Kelp! Only 50% of Supplements Pass CL's Review.

Kelp Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Does Gynostemma pentaphyllum really work as an AMPK activator and help for diabetes, high cholesterol, or weight loss?

Find out if Gynostemma pentaphyllum ( jiaogulan) works as an AMPK activator and helps to lower blood sugar and treat diabetes. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Jiaogulan (Gynostemma pentaphyllum) -- Gynostemma herb and capsules

CL Answer

Is it true that eating Brazil nuts can help with weight loss? Are there other health benefits or risks of Brazil nuts

Learn more about vitamin E intake from nuts, including Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, and almonds.

CL Answer

Are there supplements I should take, or take differently, when intermittent fasting?

Supplements that may help when intermittent fasting. Information about whey protein, CoQ10, magnesium and others, plus coffee, fiber and more.

Clinical Update

10/23/2011

Hoodia Fails for Weight Loss

For several years, hoodia has been a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements -- despite a lack of evidence. The first significant study of hoodia was just published. It showed no weight loss benefit compared to placebo. Worse, those who got hoodia experienced more side effects. See our Hoodia Review Article for details and information about hoodia. More >>

Product Review

Seaweed Snacks and Foods Review

Tests Reveal Seaweed Snack Risks

Product Review

Ginger Supplements, Chews & Spices Review

Tests Reveal Best and Worst Ginger Supplements & Spices. Poor Quality and Lead Contamination Discovered in Some Products.

Ginger Supplements Reviewed By Consumerlab.com

Product Review

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) Supplements Review (for Slimming)

Choose the Best CLA Supplement. Not All CLA Supplements Contain What You Expect.

CLA Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Berberine and Goldenseal Supplements Review

Tests Reveal the Best and Worst Berberine and Goldenseal Products

Product Review

Probiotic Supplements Review (Including Pet Probiotics)

Probiotics: See What They Really Contain and Our Top Picks

Product Review

DHEA Supplements Review

Choose the Best DHEA Supplement. Beware of Big Differences in Dose and Price.

DHEA Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com

News Release

September 14, 2023

Best and Worst Berberine and Goldenseal Supplements, According to ConsumerLab Tests

White Plains, New York, September 14, 2023 —  Recent ConsumerLab tests revealed problems with nearly 45% of the berberine and goldenseal supplements selected for testing. Powders and capsules containing goldenseal (which naturally contains berberine) were particularly likely to have issues.

CL Answer

Which supplements are important after bariatric surgery (i.e., weight loss or stomach-reducing surgery)? Are there any I should avoid?

Find out which supplements may help after weight loss or stomach reducing surgery, including iron and calcium, and which should be avoided.

Bypass Surgery Sign

Recalls & Warnings

February 13, 2023

FDA Finds Prescription Drug in “100% Natural” Weight Loss Supplement

On February 8, 2023, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use Alfia 100% Natural Weight Loss Capsules after FDA laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of sibutramine.

Product Review

Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, and Boron)

Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement and Avoid Problems

Vitamin D Review 2024

CL Answer

Do any supplements or diets help prevent or treat osteoporosis?

If you have osteoporosis, you may be interested in supplements or diets for bone health. Find out which can increase bone strength and density.

Doctor discussing osteoporosis with older female patient

Recalls & Warnings

January 06, 2015

FDA Warns of Weight Loss Supplement Dangers

On January 5, 2015, the FDA warned consumers that many weight loss products, including supplements, coffees and teas, may promise results they cannot deliver, or contain dangerous hidden drugs.

Product Review

Psyllium Fiber Supplements Review

Find the Best Psyllium Fiber Supplement and Avoid Lead.

Psyllium Review 2024

CL Answer

Which dietary supplements are most often linked to adverse reactions by users?

Find out which types of supplements are most likely to cause adverse effects such as nausea, dizziness, racing heart, or insomnia based on a study of supplement users. Also learn how often adverse effects are reported when taking workout and bodybuilding supplements, weight loss supplements, and more.

Man Experiencing Chest Pain

Clinical Update

9/25/2011

Green Tea Extract and Weight Loss

A new study using a high dose of green tea extract showed it to help sedentary overweight men lose weight, while those taking placebo gained weight. This is not the first study to show this potential benefit of green tea extract. The effect may be due to the compound EGCG. Get the facts, including how much EGCG was in the product, in the Weight Loss Supplements Review.  More >>

Recalls & Warnings

December 20, 2014

Company Recalls Second Weight Loss Supplement

On December 19, 2014, Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc. issued a recall of one lot of weight loss supplement B-Lipo Capsules because they were found to contain Lorcaserin.

Product Review

Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Review

Choose the Best Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplement. Don't Overpay! CL Identifies Quality Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements at the Best Value.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Tested by ConsumerLab.com

CL Answer

Which supplements reduce the risk of stroke? Which increase the risk of stroke?

Find out which supplements (may help reduce the risk of stroke/might increase the risk of stroke.)

Stroke Spelled on Wooden Blocks Against Blue Background

CL Answer

Can CLA slimming supplements cause liver damage?

Find out more about CLA slimming supplements and their safety, including if they can cause liver damage.

Sign Saying CLA with Omega 6 Pills on White Background

CL Answer

Is it true that taking glucosamine might make my glaucoma worse?

Learn if taking glucosamine may make glaucoma worse, including overall impact on eye health.

Review of Supplements for Joint Pain

Product Review

L-Tryptophan and 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) Supplements Review

Choose the Best L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP Supplements. CL Tests Identify High Quality L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-L-Tryptophan) at the Best Value.

L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP (5-Hydroxy-L-tryptophan) Supplements Reviewed By Consumerlab.com

CL Answer

What is CELLFOOD and is it a healthy supplement?

Learn more about CELLFOOD (NuScience Corporation), including if the claims to improve athletic performance, fibromyalgia, weight loss, and cancer are true.

What is CELLFOOD

News Release

August 31, 2023

Some L-Lysine Supplement Labels May Be Misleading, According to ConsumerLab Tests

White Plains, New York, August 31, 2023 —  Lysine (L-lysine) supplements may help prevent cold sores, genital herpes lesions, and canker sores, and are also promoted to slow hair loss, and treat herpes infections in cats.

Product Review

Coconut Oil and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review — Semi-Solid and Liquid Oils & Supplements

Find the Best Coconut Oil and MCT Oil. See How These Oils Compare on Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), Quality, and Value.

Coconut and MCT Oils Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Recalls & Warnings

August 17, 2021

Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Sibutramine Recalled

Two companies (including one Ebay seller) recently recalled weight loss supplements that were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 20, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On December 19, 2014, Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc. issued a recall of one lot of weight loss supplement SLIM-K Capsules because they were found to contain sibutramine.

CL Answer

I have been having dizziness for the past few months and am wondering if it could be a side effect of supplements I take. Which supplements cause dizziness?

Find out which supplements that may cause dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance, including garlic, melatonin, saw palmetto, and red yeast rice.

Young Woman Helping Elderly Woman Remain Upright

CL Answer

Can apple cider vinegar really lower blood sugar or help me lose weight?

Find out if apple cider vinegar can lower blood sugar and help with weight loss, and learn about its safety and side effects. ConsumerLab’s answer explains.

Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2020

FDA Finds Unapproved Drugs in Many Weight Loss and Sexual Enhancement Products Sold Online

On December 18, 2020, the FDA warned consumers that certain products promoted for weight loss, body building, sexual enhancement, pain relief, sleep, and other uses because may contain harmful ingredients.

Product Review

Muscle & Workout Supplements Review (Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acids)

Do Creatine and BCAAs Really Improve Strength and Recovery?

CL Answer

Sugar Substitutes: Pros, Cons, and Best Choices

Learn about the pros and cons of using sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners in place of table sugar. Sweeteners discussed include stevia, monk fruit, and other high-intensity sweeteners; xylitol, erythritol, allulose and other low-calorie sweeteners; and agave syrup, coconut sugar, honey, molasses and other sugar alternatives.

Stevia Health Benefits & Safety -- stevia leaf spoonful of stevia

News Release

August 09, 2023

ConsumerLab Tests Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements and Selects Top Picks

White Plains, New York, August 9, 2023 —  Alpha-lipoic acid supplements may modestly improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control, reduce symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, and aid in weight control when combined with a low-calorie diet.

Recalls & Warnings

October 10, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Multiple Drugs

On October 10, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement Japan Hokkaido Slimming Weight Loss Pills because it was found to multiple contain undeclared drugs, including sibutramine, phenolphthalein, benzocaine and diclofenac.

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2015

Don't Rely on Homeopathic Asthma Products, FDA Warns

On March 19, 2015, the FDA warned consumers who have asthma, or who have a child with asthma, not to rely on homeopathic products that promise to treat asthma or asthma-related symptoms.

Recalls & Warnings

July 01, 2003

Direct Marketers of Weight Loss, Impotence, and Arthritis Supplements Charged with Deceptive Claims

On July 1, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced three enforcement actions against direct marketers of weight-loss products containing ephedra. The two settlements and one complaint, filed in U.S.

CL Answer

Is it true that low-carb or Mediterranean diets help for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Find out if a low-carb diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, or lifestyle changes help with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Low-carb & Mediterranean Diets for GERD? -- Table with Mediterranean foods such as fish, olive oil, walnuts, vegetables

Recalls & Warnings

November 07, 2005

FTC Stops Bogus Ads for "Bio Trim" and Other Weight-loss Products

On November 7, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that under the terms of a consent agreement that it has approved, Tustin, California based Natural Products, LLC, All Natural 4 U, LLC and their owner, Ana M.

CL Answer

Which supplements and lifestyle changes improve sleep, and which cause insomnia?

Find out which vitamins may help you sleep and learn if any vitamins or supplements can cause insomnia.

Recalls & Warnings

January 24, 2017

Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

The FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

December 23, 2016

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Antidepressant

On December 22, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Queen Slimming Soft Gel because it was found to contain undeclared fluoxetine and sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 31, 2016

Pink Bikini and Shorts on the Beach Weight Supplements Recalled

On January 28, 2015, Lucy's Weight Loss System issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplements Pink Bikini (white capsules, blue capsules and gold capsules) and Shorts on the Beach (blue capsules and gold capsules) because they contain undeclared sibutramine, ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 16, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Found To Contain Drug

On May 16, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Asset Bold because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 01, 2016

Eleven Weight Loss Supplements Contain Undeclared Drugs, FDA Warns

The FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

January 24, 2003

FTC Challenges Weight-loss Claims for Slim Down Solution

The Federal Trade Commission today charged Slim Down Solution, LLC, Maderia Management, Inc., and several related companies and individuals with using false and unsubstantiated claims in the marketing and advertising of "Slim Down Solution" - a purported weight-loss product.

CL Answer

Is there a risk of liver toxicity with certain supplements?

Find out if there is risk of liver damage from supplements such as green tea, niacin, red yeast rice and vitamin A.

Liver Shape Made From Paper with Pills and Bottle Against Blue Background

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2015

Three Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

On March 18, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain undeclared drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

May 02, 2015

Drug Found in Two Weight Loss Supplements

The FDA recently warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 24, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Contains Hidden Drug

On November 24, 2014 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Super Extreme Accelerator because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 08, 2016

Weight Loss Supplements Contain Hidden Drugs, FDA Warns

The FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

February 04, 2017

Five Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

The FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

December 12, 2015

Pink Bikini Weight Supplement Recalled

On December 9, 2015, Lucy's Weight Loss System issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplement Pink Bikini white powder capsules because they were found to contain undeclared diclofenac. 

Recalls & Warnings

December 05, 2015

Lipo Escultura Weight Loss Capsules Recalled

On December 3, 2015 Lipo Escultura Corp. (doing business as JAT Productos Naturales Corp.) issued a voluntary recall of weight loss supplement Lipo Escultura capsules because they were found to contain sibutramine and diclofenac.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2015

Four Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Drugs

On October 23, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain sibutramine, phenolphthalein and/or sildenfil. Each was identified during an examination of international mail shipments:

Recalls & Warnings

October 02, 2015

Drug Found in Two Weight Loss Supplements

On October 1, 2015 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain sibutramine:

Recalls & Warnings

August 07, 2015

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Drug

On August 6, 2015 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Achieving Zero because it was found to contain sibutramine. 

Recalls & Warnings

July 25, 2015

Weight Supplement Found to Contain Three Drugs

On July 23, 2015 Life & More, L.L.C. issued a voluntary recall of 783 bottles from one lot of Akttive High Performance Fat Burner Gold weight loss capsules because they were found to contain the undeclared drugs sibutramine, desmethylsibutramine, and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

July 02, 2015

Undeclared Drugs Found in Two Weight Loss Supplements

On July 2, 2015 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared drugs. Click on the name of each product to read the full warning.

Recalls & Warnings

April 13, 2016

"Super Herbs" Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On April 11, 2016 Super Herbs issued a recall of all lots of weight loss supplement SUPER HERBS because it was found to contain sibutramine, desmethylsibutramine, and/or phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

March 29, 2016

Weight Loss Supplement Envy BP Contains Undeclared Drug

On March 28, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement ENVY BP because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 20, 2016

FDA Warns of Weight Supplements Containing Undeclared Drugs

On March 17, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

May 19, 2020

FTC Sends Refund Checks to Consumers of Unproven Weight Loss and Sexual Enhancement Supplements

On May 19, 2020, the FTC announced it is mailing 143,636 checks totaling more than $8,500,000 to consumers who purchased deceptively marketed supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

January 28, 2020

Weight Supplement Contains Hidden Drug

On January 13, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Wave Miami, LLC because the company's weight loss supplement, Lipro Dietary Capsule was found to contain the prescription medication tadalafil.

News Release

October 28, 2022

Labels on Prebiotic Supplements Are Often Unreliable, Tests Show

  White Plains, New York, October 28, 2022 — Prebiotic supplements provide fiber that feed beneficial bacteria in the gut. However, recent ConsumerLab tests show that consumers often can’t rely on labels to know how much prebiotic fiber is really in products.

Product Review

Chia Seed Review — Whole, Ground, and Sprouted Seed, Seed Flour, & Supplements

Find the Best Chia Seeds, Sprouted Chia Powder, Flour, and Chia Supplements. Tests and Reviews of Chia Seeds & CL's Top Picks.

Chia supplements reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Recalls & Warnings

March 26, 2021

Nine Banned Stimulants Found in Workout, Weight Loss Supplements

Recent analysis of 17 brands of sports/energy and weight loss supplements sold in the U.S. found nine prohibited stimulants formulated into eight different combinations, and none of these combinations have been studied in people.

CL Answer

I take a supplement containing a "proprietary formula" which lists many ingredients. Can ConsumerLab test the contents so I'll know the amounts of each ingredient?

Proprietary formulas or blends are often listed on supplements. Learn more about their meaning and safety.

CL Answer

Which supplements can cause diarrhea?

Can supplements like magnesium cause diarrhea? Find out which supplements may cause diarrhea, such as vitamin B12, curcumin, magnesium, vitamin C and fish oil.

Which supplements can cause diarrhea? -- Woman with gastrointestinal pain

Product Review

Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review

Find Out Which Protein Products Passed or Failed Our Tests

Product Review

B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)

See Our Top Picks and Which 5 Failed Testing

B Vitamins Review 2024

Recalls & Warnings

August 31, 2004

Two Makers of Weight Loss and Sex Enhancement Supplements Stopped From Making Unsubstantiated Claims

On August 27, 2004, the Federal Trade Commmission (FTC) reported that two Maine-based dietary supplement marketers and their principals have agreed to settle FTC charges that they made deceptive advertising claims about their dietary supplement products, in violation of federal law.

Recalls & Warnings

June 19, 2013

Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs, FDA Warns

On June 17, 2013, the FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use the weight loss supplements listed because they were found to contain one or both of the undeclared drugs sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

November 05, 2014

Slimming Coffee Found to Contain Drug

On November 4, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement V26 Slimming Coffee because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

October 10, 2014

FDA Warns Consumers of Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drugs

On October 10, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement Sit and Slim II because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

September 13, 2014

Three Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

On September 12, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

February 26, 2015

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Multiple Drugs

On February 25, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Lean Body Extreme because it was found to contain sibutramine, desmethyl sibutramine, phenolphthalein, and sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

February 10, 2015

Five Weight Loss Supplements Recalled

On January 9, 2015, Detox Transforms Health and Nutrition issued a voluntary recall of five weight loss supplements because they were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

February 03, 2015

Weight Loss Supplement Contains Hidden Drug

On February 3, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Yanhee Slim because it was found to contain lorcaserin.

Recalls & Warnings

March 13, 2015

Weight Loss Supplement Contains Prescription Anti-Depressant, Other Drugs

On March 3, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Natural Max Slimming because it was found to contain fluoxetine, sildenafil and sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 26, 2015

Green Algae Weight Loss Supplement Contains Hidden Drug

On March 26, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Green Algae Combination (Crane Beauty) because it was found to contain lorcaserin.

Recalls & Warnings

March 13, 2015

Weight Supplement Containing Drugs Recalled

On March 10, 2015, UltraZx, Labs, L.L.C, issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplement UltraZx because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

March 06, 2015

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy or Use Weight Loss Supplement Containing Hidden Drug

On March 5, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement L-Carnitine Sob Strengthening Version Slimming Miracle Capsule because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 03, 2015

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy or Use Weight Loss Supplement Containing Drug

On February 28, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Oxy ELITE Pro Super Thermogenic (USPLabs) because it was found to contain fluoxetine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 02, 2015

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Drug

On February 28, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Nine Slim because it was found to contain phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

June 11, 2014

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy or Use Weight Loss Supplement

On June 10, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement La Jiao Shou Shen because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

June 05, 2014

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy Use Weight Loss Supplement Containing Hidden Drugs

On June 5, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement B-Perfect because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 01, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On April 29, 2014, dietary supplement distributor Bacai Inc. issued a voluntary recall of one lot of weight loss supplement LiteFit USA because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

April 18, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On April 9, 2014, Nature's Universe issued a voluntary recall of all lots of Thinogenics weight loss capsules sold prior to February 6, 2014 because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 27, 2014

Three Weight Loss Supplements Containing Drugs Recalled

On March 25, 2014, New Life Nutritional Center issued a voluntary recall of all lots of Super Fat Burner capsules, Maxi Gold capsules and Esmeralda softgels because they were found to contain sibutramine, phenolphthalein or a combination of both drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

October 10, 2013

Six Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

On October 10, 2013, the FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use the six weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain one or both of the undeclared drugs sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

August 08, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On August 3, 2013, CTV Best Group issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplement BEST SLIM because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

August 06, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recall Expanded

On August 5, 2013, Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc., issued a voluntary recall of herbal weight loss supplements Quick Thin and Bethel Advance because they were found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

September 09, 2015

Weight Supplement Found to Contain Drug

On September 3, 2015 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Meizi Super Power Fruits Herbal Slimming Formula because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 10, 2015

"Natureal" Weight Supplement Recalled

On November 9, 2015 Inaffit, LLC issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplement Natureal because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2015

Ultimate Herbal Slimcaps Recalled

On November 19, 2015 Fit Firm and Fabulous issued a voluntary recall certain lots of weight loss supplement Ultimate Herbal Slimcap capsules because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 23, 2015

"Bee Extremely Amazed" Recalls Weight Supplements

On December 22, 2015, Bee Extremely Amazed LLC issued a voluntary recall of all lots of the following weight loss supplements, which were found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein: 

Recalls & Warnings

November 11, 2016

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Weight Loss Supplement

On November 9, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Supreme Slim 5.7 because it was found to contain sildenafil and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

April 16, 2014

Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Prescription Antidepressant and Other Drugs

On March 7, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Deseo Rebajar Inc. because the company's following weight loss products were found to contain drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

September 15, 2005

Weight Loss Pill Marketer in Settlement with New Jersey Attorney General

On August 16, 2005, New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey and Consumer Affairs Director, Kimberly Ricketts, announced that Goen Technologies Corp.

Recalls & Warnings

December 09, 2021

Florida Man Convicted for Distributing Steroids Labeled as Dietary Supplements

On December 9, 2021, 37-year-old Florida resident James Boccuzzi was convicted of one count of conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Product Review

Ashwagandha Supplements Review

Find the Best Ashwagandha Supplement. Only 38% of Ashwagandha Products Pass Tests.

Ashwagandha 2024

CL Answer

What is lunasin and does it really reduce cholesterol?

Lunasin supplement information, whether lunasin can lower cholesterol, safety and side effects, foods that contain lunasin, like soy.

CL Answer

Is it better for a fish oil (or krill oil) supplement to have more DHA than EPA?

Information on EPA and DHA in fish and krill oil supplements, including improving cognition, depression, anxiety, acne, and more.

DHA and EPA Levels in Fish Oil -- close-up of fish oil capsules

CL Answer

How do I choose the best probiotic supplement? There are so many different strains of bacteria!

Information on how to choose the best probiotic supplement based on safety and our lab test on probiotic bacteria content.

Probiotic Supplements and Bottles Against Blue Background

Recalls & Warnings

April 11, 2014

Two Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drug

On April 10, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Drugs Recalled

On April 2, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement New You because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 06, 2014

Two Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Drug

On May 5, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

June 18, 2014

Two Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

On June 17, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2014

Weight Loss "Coffee" Found to Contain Drug

On March 19, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use Vitaccino Coffee because it contains sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

February 28, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Contains Undeclared Drug

On February 18, 2014, Health Canada warned consumers not to use weight loss supplement LV Shou Reduces Fat because it contains sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

March 27, 2014

Bee Pollen and Weight Loss Supplements Recalled

On March 26, 2014, Pure Edge Nutrition, LLC issued a voluntary recall of Bella Vi Insane Bee Pollen Capsules, Bella Vi BTrim Ultimate Boost, Bella Vi BTrim Max, Bella Vi Extreme Accelerator, Bella Vi Insane Amp'd, and two lots of Bella Vi Amp'd Up because they were found to contain sibutramine, ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 09, 2014

Four Companies Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Weight Loss Claims

On January 7, 2014, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that marketers for four weight loss products have agreed to settlements over charges of deceptive weight loss claims.

Recalls & Warnings

June 30, 2013

Weight Loss Supplements Recalled Due To Undeclared Drug

On May 21, 2013, the Dolphin Intertrade Corp. issued a voluntary recall of one lot of weight loss supplement JaDera and all lots of weight loss supplement Xiyouji Qingzhi, which were found to contain the undeclared drug sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

August 20, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Formulas For Men and Women Recalled Due To Undeclared Drugs

On August 16, 2013, Herbal Give Care LLC issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss dietary supplements Esbelder man, Esbelder fem and Esbelder siloutte because they were found to contain the undeclared drugs sibutramine, N-desmethylsibutramine, and N-di-desmethylsibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 30, 2013

"Diuretic" Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On November 29, 2013, IQ Formulations issued a recall of all lots of diuretic weight loss supplement HYDRAVAX because one lot of the supplement was found to contain an undeclared prescription diuretic drug.

Recalls & Warnings

March 03, 2015

Weight Supplement Contains Hidden Drug

On March 2, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Elimulating Weight & Toxin Keeping Beauty because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

May 13, 2015

Amberen Weight Loss Claims Not Supported by Evidence, Says FTC

On May 12, 2015, the FTC announced it filed a complaint to stop Lunada Biomedical Inc. from advertising that its product Amberen is clinically proven to cause substantial weight loss in women over 40.

Recalls & Warnings

June 06, 2015

Weight Supplement Recalled

On June 3, 2015 SmartLipo365 issued a voluntary recall of 122 lots of Smart Lipo because they were found to contain the undeclared drugs sibutramine, desmethylsibutramine, and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

September 13, 2014

Marketer Banned From Selling Weight Loss Products

In order to settle FTC charges of deceptive weight loss claims, John Matthew Dwyer III, the co-founder of HealthyLife Sciences, LLC, has agreed to no longer manufacture or market weight loss supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

November 26, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Hidden Drug

On November 25, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Slim Vie because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 01, 2015

Weight Supplements Found to Contain Antidepressant and Other Prescription Drugs

On November 19, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain prescription drugs. Each was identified during an examination of international mail shipments:

Recalls & Warnings

February 06, 2016

Marketers of Weight Supplements AF Plus and Final Trim Violated Consumer Protection Laws, Says FTC

On January 19, 2016, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and State of Maine's Office of the Attorney General charged marketers of weight loss supplements AF Plus and Final Trim with violating consumer protection laws.

Recalls & Warnings

October 16, 2018

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Hidden Drug Recalled

On October 15, 2018, Fat Burners Zone issued a recall of one lot of its Zero Xtreme weight loss supplement because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 29, 2019

Prescription Drugs Found in Four Weight Loss Supplements

On January 28, 2019, the FDA the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain sibutramine and/or phenolphthalein:

Recalls & Warnings

January 22, 2019

Weight Loss Supplement Tainted With Drug

On January 10, 2019, the FDA warned consumers not to use the weight loss supplement Slimina, because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

September 14, 2023

Toxic Herb Found In Weight Supplements

On September 8, 2023, the FDA warned consumers that Nut Diet Max and Todorganic Natural Products brand supplements and seed products labeled as containing "Nuez de la India" (Aleurites moluccana) seeds actually contain yellow oleander (Thevetia ...

CL Answer

Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?

Find out which supplements can help lower or control blood sugar. Supplements including turmeric/curcumin, fiber, cinnamon, and ginseng are believed to help lower blood sugar.

Blood Sugar Control -- blood test and blood sugar chart

Product Review

Calcium and Bone Health Supplements Review (Including Vitamins D & K, Magnesium and Boron)

See Which Bone Health Supplements Are Top Picks and Which Fail

Calcium Review 2024

Product Review

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review

Many Extra Virgin Olive Oils Don't Seem to Make the Grade

Clinical Update

3/08/2022

Brazil Nuts for Weight Management?

Brazil nuts have been touted to improve weight loss. See if a recent study found that to be true in our article about the Health Effects of Brazil Nuts.

Clinical Update

3/06/2018

Do Probiotics Affect Weight?

Studies have shown some probiotics to help somewhat with weight loss and/or slimming, while others have shown no effect. However, a recent study with a popular probiotic found that it increased weight. Get the details in the Weight and fat loss section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

9/30/2024

GlucoseGoddess for Blood Sugar?

Anti-Spike Formula by GlucoseGoddess is promoted as a natural alternative to blood sugar and weight loss medications such as Ozempic. See our take on this supplement in our article about supplements for lowering blood sugar.

Clinical Update

11/11/2024

Best Calcium After Bariatric "Stomach" Surgery?

Is the citrate form of calcium better absorbed than the carbonate form among people with a history of bariatric surgery? Find out what a recent study showed in the ConsumerTips section of our Calcium Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for calcium.

Also see: Which supplements are important after bariatric surgery (i.e., weight loss or stomach-reducing surgery)? Are there any I should avoid?

Recalls & Warnings

June 19, 2018

FDA Warns Seller of Weight Control Patches

On June 6, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Health Management Group, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 27, 2021

"Miss Slim" Capsules Recalled

On July 20, 2021, HIS issued a recall of all lots and presentations of Miss Slim capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

July 10, 2014

Five Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Undeclared Drugs

On July 8, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine and/or phenolphthalein.

CL Answer

Which supplements can help treat anemia? Do any supplements cause a low red blood cell count?

Find out which vitamin and nutrient supplements can help prevent and treat anemia in people who are nutrient deficient and learn which supplements may cause low blood cell counts, especially when used in excess.

Woman holding various vitamins and supplements in her hands

CL Answer

Do any supplements or lifestyle changes reduce the symptoms of tinnitus? Is it true that some supplements can cause tinnitus?

Learn which supplements can ease tinnitus, including melatonin and pine bark extract. Understand which may actually cause tinnitus.

Word blocks spelling out “tinnitus”

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On November 14, 2013, Deseo Rebajar Inc. issued a recall of one lot of weight loss supplement Adipotrim XT because it was found to contain undeclared fluoxetine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 20, 2013

Five Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Undeclared Drug

On December 19, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

November 25, 2014

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy or Use Weight Loss Supplement

On November 24, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Bee Slim because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

October 22, 2014

Supplements Recalled Years Ago Remain on the Market, Still Contain Hidden Drugs

On October 21, 2014, a report in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) revealed that almost 10% of the supplements that have been recalled over the past few years are still on the market - and many still contain the hidden drugs which prompted their initial recall.

Recalls & Warnings

October 09, 2014

New Synthetic Stimulant Found in Supplements

A synthetic stimulant never before studied in humans, 1,3-dimethylbutylamine (DMBA), was found in a dozen supplements sold by U.S. distributors in dosages from 13 to 20 mg per serving (Cohen, Drug Test Analys 2014).

Recalls & Warnings

December 12, 2014

Marketers of HCG Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Weight Loss Claims

Marketers of HCG Platinum drops have agreed to pay $1 million to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that claims the drops could cause rapid and substantial weight loss were deceptive and not supported by scientific evidence.

Recalls & Warnings

July 23, 2013

Weight Loss Supplements Containing Undeclared Drugs Recalled

On July 19, 2013, Herbal Give Care LLC issued a voluntary recall of all lots of weight loss supplements Esbelin siloutte te and Esbelin siloutte Herbal Blend with L-Carnitine because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine, N-desmethylsibutramine, and N-di-desmethylsibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

July 03, 2016

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On June 1, 2016, Dream Body Weight Loss issued a recall of all lots of the following weight loss supplements listed because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine:

  • Dream Body Extreme Gold 800 mg 30 gold capsules

Recalls & Warnings

April 01, 2017

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On March 28, 2017, Envy Me issued a recall of weight loss supplement LaBri's Body Health Atomic because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine. Sibutramine, the active ingredient in the obesity drug Meridia, was removed from the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

May 01, 2023

TruVision Recalls Products Due to Presence of Potentially Dangerous Ingredients

On April 27, 2023, TruVision Health issued a recall of various dietary supplement products because they contain hordenine and/or octodrine/DMHA, compounds that the FDA considers to be “possibly unsafe” and which are not permitted to be sold as dietary supplements.

Product Review

CBD Oils, Softgels, Gummies, Creams & Salves Review

See How Much CBD and THC We Found in Products.

Recalls & Warnings

December 10, 2002

Company Ordered to Cease Deceptive Marketing of Weight Loss Product

A U.S. District Court in Texas has ordered Mark Nutritionals, maker of Body Solutions Evening Weight Loss Formula, to stop making certain claims with regard to the product. The order is in response to a complaint by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) accusing the company of false advertising.

Recalls & Warnings

February 21, 2015

FTC Mails Refund Checks to Consumers Who Purchased Weight Loss Pills

As part of a $500,000 settlement over "outrageous" weight-loss claims made by a supplement company called the "Freedom Center Against Obesity," the FTC is mailing 11,585 refund checks this week to consumers who purchased the company's Double Shot diet pills.

Product Review

Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review (Including Spirulina and Chlorella)

Avoid Lead in Greens, Problems with Pills, and Don't Give Up Eating Whole Foods.

Greens Review Oct 2023

News Release

October 21, 2020

Best Apple Cider Vinegar? Quality of Bottled Apple Cider Vinegars and Supplements Varies, According to ConsumerLab

White Plains, New York, October 21, 2020 — Apple cider vinegar is often promoted for lowering blood sugar levels, weight loss, "balancing" pH, and improving digestion.

CL Answer

Butyrate Supplements for Gut Health: Does butyric acid really work and is it safe?

Can butyrate supplements improve gut health or help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or Crohn's disease? Find out what the clinical evidence shows, learn about the different forms of butyrate, including sodium butyrate, calcium-magnesium butyrate, and tributyrate, and get details about products such as BodyBio Sodium Butyrate and Healus Complete Biotic Tributyrin, dosage, safety and cost.

Butyrate Supplements

Recalls & Warnings

May 11, 2006

Weight-Loss Marketers Pay $3 Million for Deceptive Advertising

On May 11, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that sellers making questionable weight-loss and fat-loss claims to peddle skin gels and diet supplements will pay $3 million to settle charges that their deceptive claims violated federal law.

Recalls & Warnings

June 21, 2005

Marketers of “Himalayan Diet Breakthrough” Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising

On June 20, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that AVS Marketing, Inc., and its president, William R. Heid, have agreed to pay $400,000 in consumer redress to settle FTC charges that they deceptively marketed a purported weight-loss pill called “Himalayan Diet Breakthrough.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2014

Weight Loss Supplements Recalled

On November 19, 2014, REFA Enterprises, LLC issued a voluntary recall of one lot each of Forever Beautiful Bee Pollen and Forever Beautiful Infinity because they were found to contain sibutramine or a combination of sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 09, 2015

Marketers Charged with Using Stolen Email Accounts to Promote Weight Loss Supplements Temporarily Shut Down

On May 4, 2015, the FTC announced it has obtained a court order to temporarily halt the operations of weight loss marketers Sale Slash, charging that the company used affiliate marketers to send illegal spam emails and post banner ads online that led consumers to fake news sites.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2013

FDA Warns of Five More Weight Loss Supplements Containing Undeclared Drugs

On November 21, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain one or both of the undeclared drugs sibutramine and phenolphthalein:

Recalls & Warnings

November 20, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Drugs

On November 19, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Slim Max because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

November 12, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Found To Contain Drugs

On November 8, 2013, Health Canada warned consumers of a number of weight loss products that have been found to contain sibutramine or phenolphthalein, including Paiyouji Natural Slimming Capsules, which may be available for purchase to U.S. consumers through online retailers.

Recalls & Warnings

November 06, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Drugs

On November 5, 2013, the FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use the weight loss supplement Goodliness Fat-Reducing capsules, which were sold on various websites, because they were found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

June 27, 2013

Two Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs

On June 27, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to use or buy two dietary supplements for weight loss which were found to contain the undeclared sibutramine and/or phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 15, 2014

FDA Warns Consumers Not To Buy Or Use Weight Loss Supplement

On May 12, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Asset Bee Pollen because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 24, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Buy or Use Weight Loss Supplement

On December 19, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Dr. Ming's Chinese Capsule because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

February 17, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Recall Expanded to Include Additional Products

On February 4, 2014, MyNicKnaxs, LLC, which first issued a recall of Reduce Weight Fruta Planta, issued a recall of nine additional weight loss supplements: Magic Slim, Fruta Bio, SlimEasy, Super Fat Burning Bomb, Slim Xtreme, Meizi Evolution, Meizitang Strong Version Botanical Slimming, ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 20, 2016

Smart Lipo Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Undeclared Drugs

On June 16, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Centro Naturista because the company's weight loss supplement, Smart Lipo, was found to contain undeclared sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

February 05, 2016

Garcinia, Green Coffee Marketers Pay $43 Million to Settle Charges of False Weight Loss Claims

Sale Slash, LLC, has agreed to pay more than $43 million to settle FTC charges it used unsubstantiated claims and fake celebrity endorsements to promote its Premium Green Coffee, Pure Garcinia Cambogia, Premium White Kidney Bean Extract, Pure Forskolin Extract, and Pure Caralluma Fimbriata Extract ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 02, 2016

Weight Loss Supplements Containing Hidden Drugs Recalled

On April 29, 2016 Making It A Lifestyle, L.L.C. issued a recall of all lots of weight loss supplements 3rd Degree, Black Gold X Advanced and Black Label X because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine and sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2015

Don't Get Stung by Bee Pollen

On December 18, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the following supplments promoted for weight loss because they were found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein:

Recalls & Warnings

April 14, 2020

Teami Tea Settles Charges of Unproven Claims and Deceptive Celebrity Endorsements

On March 6, 2020, the FTC announced that Teami, LLC, a marketer of tea and skin care products, agreed to settle charges that it was selling products with unproven claims and misleading celebrity endorsements.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2003

Court Closes the Doors on Company That Sold Weight Loss Supplement

On October 24, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)announced that Mark Nutritionals, Inc. and Edward D’Alessandro, Jr. have agreed to settle federal charges that they used false and unsubstantiated claims to sell their weight-loss product.

CL Answer

10 Supplements That May Boost Testosterone (And 13 That May Not)

Many supplements promise to increase testestorone, boost libido, and increase muscle size, but, as ConsumerLab explains, the actual effectiveness of supplements is limited, and some supplements may actually reduce testosterone levels.

Chalkboard sign that says low testosterone sitting on a table in front of a book and supplements

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of black cumin seed (black seed) oil?

Find out if black seed oil has health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure or cholesterol, asthma, weight loss, and others. Dosage, forms, including black seed oil and black seed powder, safety information, using black seed oil in foods and more. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Black seed oil benefits -- bowl of black cumin seeds and bottle of oil

CL Answer

Do any supplements help with fatty liver disease? Are some diets more beneficial than others?

Find out if supplements such as vitamin E, fish oil, milk thistle, curcumin, choline, probiotics, vitamin D, reishi mushroom, or extra virgin olive oil are beneficial for fatty liver disease and learn which diet (Mediterranean, ketogenic, DASH, or fasting diets) seems to have greatest benefit.

Overweight man holding his right side near his liver

Recalls & Warnings

July 30, 2003

Maker of Weight-Loss and Cellulite Treatment Ordered to Stop False Claims and Pay Consumer Redress

On July 30, 2003 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that a Canadian-based company operating in the United States under the name “Bio Lab,” and its president, Jean-Francois Brochu, have agreed to settle FTC charges that they deceived consumers through false and unsubstantiated advertising ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2012

“Japan Rapid Weight Loss Diet Pills Green” Contains Hidden Drug Ingredient

April 3, 2012: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use "Japan Rapid Weight Loss Diet Pills Green," a product for weight loss sold on various websites, such as www.amazon.com, and distributed by Xiushentang.

Recalls & Warnings

December 08, 2011

HCG Diet Products Don't Work and Are Illegal Says FDA

On December 6, 2011, the U.S. FDA warned consumers to avoid homeopathic HCG weight-loss diet products because they don't work, often make unsupported claims, and are illegal for sale. In addition, some of these products direct user to follow a potentially dangerous diet.

Recalls & Warnings

July 26, 2017

Weight Loss Supplements Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On July 25, 2017, EZ Weight Loss TX recalled their supplements La Bri's Body Health Atomic and Xplode capsules after FDA analysis found the products to be tainted with sibutramine.

Product Review

Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review

Best Multivitamins In 2023 -- Caution with Gummies

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2007

Sellers of Popular Weight Loss Supplements Pay $25 Million Over FTC Allegations of Deceptive Advertising

On January 4, 2007, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it had filed complaints in four separate cases alleging that weight-loss and weight-control claims were not supported by competent and reliable scientific evidence.

Product Review

Fish Oil, Krill Oil, and Algal Oil Omega-3 (DHA & EPA) Supplements Review

See Our Omega-3 Top Picks and Avoid Rancid Fish Oils.

Fish Oil and Other Marine Oil Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Recalls & Warnings

February 22, 2012

"Japan Weight Loss Blue" Pills Dangerous According to FDA

On February 18, 2012, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advised consumers not to purchase or use “Japan Weight Loss Blue,” a product for weight loss sold on various websites, including www.vitaminbestbuy.com.

Recalls & Warnings

June 14, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Found To Contain Undeclared Drug

On June 6, 2013, the FDA warned consumers that weight loss dietary supplement XIYOUJI QINGZHI CAPSULE was found to contain undeclared simbutrimine.

Recalls & Warnings

June 12, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled Due To Undeclared Drugs

On June 11, 2013, Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc. issued a voluntary recall of one lot of Bethel 30 herbal weight loss supplement because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

February 14, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Drug Recalled

On February 4, 2014, MyNicKnaxs, LLC. issued a recall of weight loss supplement Reduce Weight Fruta Planta because it was found to contain phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

January 30, 2014

Four Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Drugs

On January 28, 2014, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the four weight loss supplements listed below because they were found to contain sibutramine or phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

January 23, 2014

"Slimming" Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

On January 21, 2014, the FDA advised consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplements Dream Body Slimming Capsule and Magic Slim because they were found to contain sibutramine and/or phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

October 21, 2014

Seller of Weight Loss Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On October 7, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to YoungYou International, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

November 07, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers of Weight Loss Supplement Containing Multiple Drugs

On November 7, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use Jimpness Beauty Fat Loss Capsules because they were found to contain sibutramine, phenolphthalein, and sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

September 09, 2014

Maker of Popular Green Coffee Bean Extract Settles FTC Charges of Unsupported Weight Loss Claims

Applied Food Sciences, Inc., maker of green coffee bean extract GCA, has agreed to pay $3.5 million to settle FTC charges that weight loss claims made about the extract were not supported by scientific evidence.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2015

"Thirty Plus" Contains Hidden Drug

On December 18, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Thirty Plus because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2015

Drugs Found in Jenesis Weight Supplement

On December 18, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Jenesis because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

June 07, 2016

Step 2 Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On June 7, 2016, The Body Shot Bar issued a recall of all lots of weight loss supplement Step 2 60 gold capsule (350 mg per) capsules which were distributed between March 1 through May 6 2016 because they were found to contain undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

May 07, 2016

Weight Loss Supplement Contains Hidden Drug, FDA Warns

On May 6, 2016 the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Step 2 because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine.

CL Answer

I take omeprazole (Prilosec), a proton pump inhibitor, to reduce stomach acid. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?

Supplement interactions with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs like omeprazole (Prilosec) and Nexium.

CL Answer

Do any supplements help treat or reduce the pain of plantar fasciitis (heel pain)?

Plantar fasciitis causing heel pain has, in rare cases, been reported as a symptom of vitamin D deficiency. Other supplements that have been proposed to help include vitamin C, zinc, curcumin (from turmeric), bromelain, collagen and glucosamine. Find out what the evidence shows, and what other treatments may help.

Supplements for Plantar Fasciitis -- Woman With Heel Pain

Recalls & Warnings

March 16, 2018

FTC Sends Refund Checks to Consumers of Unproven Weight-Loss Products

On March 15, 2018, the FTC announced it is mailing 18,301 checks totaling more than $437,000 to consumers who purchased weight-loss products from Colby Fox, Christopher Reinhold, and their companies, Tachht, Inc. and Teqqi, LLC.

Recalls & Warnings

February 27, 2018

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On February 27, 2018, Bella All Natural recalled their "Diet Capsules" because they contain sibutramine. 

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2019

Weight Loss, Muscle & Energy Supplements Linked to Adverse Events in Children and Young Adults

Consumption of dietary supplements sold for weight loss, muscle building, and energy are associated with an increased risk for severe medical events in children and young adults compared to the consumption of vitamins, according to a recent study published in the Journal of the Adolescent ...

Recalls & Warnings

March 06, 2019

GoLean Detox Recalled

On February 25, 2019, GoLean Detox USA issued a recall of all lots of GoLean DETOX capsules within expiry because they were found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 11, 2022

FDA Warns 10 Companies for Selling Workout Supplements With Dangerous Ingredients

On May 4, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to 10 companies for selling products promoted for muscle building, fat burning and other uses that contain potentially dangerous ingredients not permitted in dietary supplements, including hordenine, higenamine, 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin, and CBD.

Recalls & Warnings

April 29, 2024

Longreen Reishi and Xlim Express Coffee Recalled Due to Undeclared Allergens

On April 18, 2024, BF Suma Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

News Release

March 03, 2020

Best and Worst Chia Seed Products Revealed by ConsumerLab

White Plains, New York, March 3, 2020 — Chia seeds are rich in fiber and a good source of healthful oils, particularly the omega-3 fatty acid ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), as well certain vitamins and minerals.

Recalls & Warnings

December 12, 2014

FTC Mails Refund Checks to Consumers Who Purchased Sensa

As part of a $26,023,329 settlement over false weight-loss claims made by marketers of Sensa, the FTC is mailing 477,083 refund checks this week to consumers who purchased Sensa "sprinkles."

Recalls & Warnings

April 21, 2011

FTC Targets Fake News Sites Making Deceptive Acai Claims

On April 19, 2011, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requested federal courts to temporarily halt the allegedly deceptive tactics of 10 operations using fake news websites to market acai berry weight-loss products.

Recalls & Warnings

January 09, 2009

FDA Expands Warning to Consumers About Tainted Weight Loss Pills

On January 8, 2009, the U.S. FDA expanded its nationwide alert to consumers about tainted weight loss pills that contain undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients. On December 22, 2008, FDA warned consumers not to purchase or consume 28 different products marketed for weight loss.

News Release

March 07, 2019

Best Coconut and MCT Oils Identified by ConsumerLab

White Plains, New York, March 7, 2019 — Coconut oil is often promoted as a "healthy fat" and an alternative source of energy to help with weight loss and in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease because it contains medium chain triglycerides (MCTs).

Recalls & Warnings

July 23, 2009

Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Prescription Drug

On July 15, 2009, the U.S. FDA announced that Young You Corporation was recalling four weight loss supplements that contain an undeclared drug ingredient.

Recalls & Warnings

April 04, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers Of Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug

On April 4, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use the dietary supplement MAXILOSS Weight Advanced Blue because it was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

February 25, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled Due To Undeclared Drug

On February 21, 2013, Olaax Corp. issued a voluntary, nationwide recall of the company's weight loss supplement MAXILOSS Weight Advanced softgels because they were found to contain undeclared Sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 27, 2015

Green Coffee Bean Supplement Marketer Settles FTC Charges of Deceptive Claims

On January 26, 2015, the FTC announced that Pure Health LLC, Genesis Today, and owner of both companies, Lindsey Duncan, will pay $9 million to settle charges of deceptive weight loss claims made about the companies' green coffee bean extract products.

Recalls & Warnings

September 02, 2014

Recall of Weight Loss Supplement Expanded

On August 27, 2014, Regeneca Worldwide expanded its previous recall of two lots of appetite control supplement RegenESlim to include two more lots because FDA tests found them to contain DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine).

Recalls & Warnings

December 26, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On December 23, 2013, Deseo Rebajar Inc. issued a voluntary recall of one lot of Burn 7 Capsules because they were found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

April 02, 2016

Propell Platinum Contains Undeclared Drugs

On March 29, 2016, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use the weight loss supplement Propell Platinum because it was found to contain undeclared sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

January 19, 2023

Male Sexual Enhancement Supplement Adam’s Secret Found to Contain Prescription Medication

On January 10, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to HIS Enterprise Inc dba Adam’s Secret USA, LLC after laboratory analysis found Adam’s Secret Extra Strength 3000 Platinum, Adam’s Secret Extra Strength Blue, Adam’s Secret Extra Strength Purple, Adam's Secret ...

Product Review

Saffron Supplements Review

See How Saffron Supplements Compare and What They Do

Product Review

Avocado Oil Review

Find the Best Avocado Oil for Purity, Freshness and Taste. Some Others May Include Rotten Avocado or Other Oils.

Avocado oil reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

News Release

July 10, 2018

Best Chromium Supplements Identified by ConsumerLab

White Plains, New York, July 10, 2018 — Chromium supplements are promoted to help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes and with weight loss.

Recalls & Warnings

November 29, 2012

Sensa Settles Second False Advertising Lawsuit

On November 27, 2012, Sensa Products LLC, maker of the Sensa Weight Loss System, announced it agreed to settle a false advertising lawsuit filed by the Nutritional Supplemental Task Force in California, without an admission of guilt.

Recalls & Warnings

November 02, 2009

FTC Charges Marketers with Baseless Weight-Loss Claims

On November 2, 2009 the U.S. Justice Department, at the Federal Trade Commission’s request, filed suit today in federal court in a case affecting consumers nationwide.

Recalls & Warnings

June 21, 2005

FTC Settles Claims with Marketers of FiberThin and Propolene

On June 20, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the marketers of the dietary supplements FiberThin and Propolene have settled FTC charges that their misleading weight-loss claims violated federal laws.

Recalls & Warnings

June 17, 2004

FTC Challenges Deceptive Weight Loss Claims for Supplement Targeted at Hispanics

On June 17, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new law enforcement action challenging false advertising for the 1-2-3 Diet Kit, a purported weight loss product.

Recalls & Warnings

January 18, 2005

Sellers of “Fat Trapper Plus” and “Exercise in a Bottle” Banned from Advertising Weight-Loss Products

On January 18, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)announced that Enforma Natural Products, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

September 10, 2021

FDA Warns Ten Sellers of "Diabetes" Supplements

On September 7, 2021, the FDA issued warning letters to 10 supplement companies that made drug claims by promoting products to treat diabetes and/or lower blood sugar. Five of the products were sold on Amazon as well as on company websites. The products were promoted with statements such as

Recalls & Warnings

June 16, 2004

Ads for Various Diet Pills and Topical Gels Don’t Cut the Fat, Says the FTC

On June 16, 2004, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)charged a Utah-based company, five related corporations, and three individuals operating as a common enterprise with making numerous false and unsubstantiated claims for weight-loss and fat-loss gels and supplements.

News Release

May 02, 2018

Best Probiotic Supplements and Kombuchas? -- ConsumerLab Tests 41 Popular Products, Reveals Problems and Top Picks

White Plains, New York, May 2, 2018 — With so many different probiotic supplements on the market, each providing different amounts and strains of beneficial bacteria or yeast, choosing the right one can be an overwhelming task.

CL Answer

Do any supplements reduce the side effects of chemotherapy? Should any be avoided?

Find out if there are any supplements that can help with the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, nerve damage and others. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Supplements & Chemotherapy Side Effects -- chemotherapy medicine and capsules

News Release

December 06, 2016

Which Brands of Alpha Lipoic Acid are Best? -- ConsumerLab.com Tests Lipoic Acid Supplements for Quality, Identifying Top Picks

White Plains, New York, December 6, 2016 — Alpha-lipoic acid supplements may improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes, reduce symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and enhance weight loss when dieting.

Recalls & Warnings

June 08, 2018

NutriMost Weight-Loss System Consumers Can Submit Claim for Refund

On May 17, 2018, the FTC announced consumers who purchased the NutriMost Ultimate Fat Loss System in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, area between October 1, 2012, and August 9, 2016 can now submit a claim for a refund as part of settle agreement. The refund claim form can be found here.

News Release

July 26, 2016

36% of Meal Replacement Powders and Shakes Fail ConsumerLab.com's Tests of Quality

White Plains, New York, July 26, 2016 — [Note: This review has been archived and is no longer available online. For ConsumerLab's most recent tests of meal replacement shakes, drinks and mixes, please see our Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review.

Recalls & Warnings

August 17, 2022

Seller of Moringa Tea and Other Herbal Products Warned for Drug Claims, Manufacturing Violations

On July 29, 2022, the FDA issued a warning letter to Deggeh Foods, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 25, 2022

White Mulberry Leaf Caused Death of Congressman's Wife, Coroner Reports

The death of Lori McClintock, 61-year-old wife of California congressman Tom McClintock, was caused by dehydration from gastroenteritis caused by “adverse effects of white mulberry leaf ingestion,” according to a coroner's report recently obtained by Kaiser Health News.

Recalls & Warnings

December 13, 2021

Seller of Vitamin B12 Injections Without Prescription Pleads Guilty

On December 8, 2021, 46-year-old Des Moines resident Bradley Tomlinson plead guilty to a felony charge related to the sale of misbranded vitamin B12 injectable drugs. Tomlinson began selling these injectable drugs in May 2015 and marketed them as weight loss drugs.

Product Review

Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review

Find the Best Zinc Supplements and Lozenges. Have a Cold? See CL's Top Picks Among Zinc Supplements and Lozenges.

Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Joint Health Supplements for Pets Review (Glucosamine, Chondroitin, MSM & Boswellia)

See Which Pet Supplements for Joint Health Passed Our Tests and Which Didn't!

Joint Health Supplements for Pets

Product Review

Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Review (Sterols/Stanols and Policosanol)

Find the Best Cholesterol-Lowering Supplement. See Which Plant Sterol and Policosanol Supplements Passed Our Tests and Are Our Top Picks.

Sterol, Stanol, and Policosanol Supplements for Cholesterol-lowering Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Iron Supplements Review (Iron Pills, Liquids and Chews)

See Which Iron Supplements Are CL's Top Picks for Different Needs

Product Review

Prebiotic Supplements Review

You Can't Tell How Much Fiber Is Really In Most Prebiotics Without Testing

Prebiotics 2024 Expanded Review

Recalls & Warnings

April 28, 2017

Marketers of Weight Loss System Agree to Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Claims

On April 21, 2017, the FTC announced the marketers of the NutriMost Ultimate Fat Loss System (NutriMost, LLC and NutriMost Doctors, LLC) agreed to settle charges they made false claims about the product.

Recalls & Warnings

February 09, 2017

Federal Court Orders Dietary Supplement Distributor to Stop Selling Its Products

On February 9, 2017, the FDA announced that VivaCeuticals Inc, doing business as Regeneca Worldwide, has been ordered by a federal court to stop selling its products, which were found to contain unsafe ingredients including DMAA.

Recalls & Warnings

September 16, 2015

Weight And Enhancement Supplement Recall Expanded

On September 11, 2015, One Minute Miracle Inc. issued a recall of all lots the following supplements which were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

September 16, 2005

FTC Stops Weight-loss Claims about Seaweed-based Patches

On September 15, 2005, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the alleged masterminds behind a fraudulent scheme to market two seaweed-based patches as weight-loss products to U.S. consumers have settled FTC charges.

Recalls & Warnings

October 06, 2004

False Claims Made by Marketer of Cortisol-related Weight-Loss Supplements According to FTC

On October 6, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)charged marketers of two dietary supplements with claiming, falsely and without substantiation, that their products can cause weight loss and reduce the risk of, or prevent, serious health conditions.

Recalls & Warnings

August 31, 2007

FTC Stops Spammers Selling Bogus Hoodia and Human Growth Hormone

On August 23, 2007, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), announced that spammers must stop sending unwanted and illegal e-mail messages about hoodia weight-loss products and human growth hormone anti-aging products the FTC alleges don't work.

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2009

QVC Settles Charges of False Claims for Supplements

On March 19, 2009, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that QVC, Inc., a TV home shopping channel and one of the world’s largest multimedia retailers, has agreed to pay $7.

Recalls & Warnings

November 03, 2011

Hoodia Marketers Fined and Banned from Business

On November 3, 2011, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it settled charges brought against three people and two companies for deceptively advertising a supposed weight-loss supplement ingredient -- hoodia.

Recalls & Warnings

February 01, 2012

FDA Warns Seller of Almased Weight Loss Product of Marketing Violations

On January 18, 2011, the U.S. FDA sent a Warning Letter to Almased USA regarding legal violations in its marketing of its Almased product (Almased Synergy Diet).

Recalls & Warnings

November 09, 2012

FDA Warns Consumers of Two Weight Loss Supplements Containing a Drug

On November 8, 2012, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplements Beautiful Body Slim and Japan Hokkaido Slimming Weight Loss Pills after FDA testing found these products contain the drug sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 11, 2013

Consumers May Be Eligible For Cold, Allergy and Weight Loss Supplement Refunds

On January 7, 2013, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that consumers who purchased the Iovate Health dietary supplements Accelis, nanoSLIM, Cold MD, Germ MD, or Allergy MD between January 2006 and July 2010 may qualify for a refund.

Recalls & Warnings

December 05, 2012

Hydroxycut Class Action Lawsuit To Be Settled

Iovate Health Sciences Inc. has agreed to a settlement of $25.3 million, pending final court approval, in a class action lawsuit that alleged the company deceived consumers about the safety of its Hydroxycut weight loss supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

February 15, 2013

FDA Seizes Weight Loss Supplements Containing Undeclared Drug

On Feb. 14, 2013, U.S. Marshals acting on behalf of the FDA seized weight loss supplements from Globe All Wellness, LLC which were found to contain the undeclared drug sibutramine hydrochloride.

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2014

FDA Warns Some Bee Pollen Products for Weight Loss Are Dangerous

On June 19, 2014, the FDA warned consumers that some weight loss products containing bee pollen have been found to contain hidden drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

May 20, 2014

FTC Charges Seller of Green Coffee Bean with False Weight Loss Claims, Fake Websites

On May 15, 2014, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against the sellers of Pure Green Coffee for making unsubstantiated weight loss claims and deceiving consumers with fake "news" websites.

Recalls & Warnings

November 20, 2013

$2 Million In Weight Loss and "Fat-Burning" Supplements Seized

On November 12, 2013, U.S. Marshals seized more than $2 million worth of supplements from Georgia-based Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2013

Weight Loss Capsules Recalled Due Allergen Risk

On December 13, 2013, Stone Independent Research, Inc. issued recall of one lot of Zanocap Scientific Weight Loss 500 mg capsules because they contain undeclared whey protein, which is derived from milk.

Recalls & Warnings

December 06, 2013

Weight Loss Supplement Claims Challenged

On November 27, 2013, the National Advertising Division (NAD) recommended HealthyLife Sciences, LLC, modify or discontinue the use of certain claims made about the company's weight loss supplement Healthe Trim.

Recalls & Warnings

August 29, 2013

Seller of CELLFOOD Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On August 1, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to supplement retailer Lumina Health Products, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 08, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain DMAA Recalled

On August 6, 2014, Regeneca Worldwide issued a recall of two lots of appetite control supplement RegenESlim because FDA tests found them to contain DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine).

Recalls & Warnings

August 07, 2015

Male Enhancement and Weight Loss Supplement Containing Drugs Recalled

On August 6, 2015 Blue Square Market Inc. issued a recall of the following supplements which were found to contain undeclared drugs:

Recalls & Warnings

April 26, 2015

FDA Identifies More Products Listing Synthetic Amphetamine

On April 22, 2015, the FDA issued warning letters to sellers of weight loss and workout supplements that list a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound called beta- methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA) on product labels.

Recalls & Warnings

April 11, 2015

Acai Berry Marketers Who Tricked Consumers with Fake News Sites Ordered to Pay $16 Million

On April 6, 2015, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that a recent U.S. district court ruling will require marketing affiliates for LeanSpa's acai berry and "colon cleanse" weight loss products to pay $16 million in consumer redress.

Recalls & Warnings

April 08, 2015

Does Your Weight Loss or Sports Supplement Contain Synthetic Amphetamine?

A study published on April 7, 2015, reported that among 21 weight loss, sports and cognitive enhancement supplements labeled as containing the plant extract Acacia rigidula, more than half were found to contain a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound called beta- methylphenylethylamine ...

CL Answer

Does Rooibos Tea Have Health Benefits and Is It Safe?

Learn about the health benefits of rooibos tea, including red and green, unfermented rooibos tea, how is differs from black and green tea, safety, and potential drug interactions with rooibos tea.

Rooibos Tea

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides, such as those used in Bulletproof Coffee?

Learn the health benefits of coconut oil and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), including evidence from Bulletproof Coffee, clinical studies on obesity, skin, and Alzheimer's disease.

Coconut Oil & MCTs -- Coconuts and coconut oil with coffee cup

News Release

October 14, 2015

Is Matcha a Better Form of Green Tea? ConsumerLab.com Answers the Question

White Plains, New York, October 14, 2015 — For the past three years, ConsumerLab.com has been testing green tea products, including tea bags, bottled drinks, dietary supplements, and even a K-Cup®.

News Release

March 05, 2015

ConsumerLab.com Shows Chinese Consumers What's Really in Foods and Supplements -- U.S. Testing Company Expands to China, Launches cn.ConsumerLab.com

White Plains, New York, March 5, 2015 — Since 1999, American consumers and doctors have turned to ConsumerLab.com (CL) to find out which nutritional products are highest in quality based independent testing. Today, CL launched a Chinese-language website cn.ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

Which ingredients should toothpastes and other dental products contain, and which should be avoided?

Learn about ingredients you want in your toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and which ingredients you may want to avoid.

Toothpaste in the shape of question mark coming out from toothpaste tube

CL Answer

Do any supplements help with COVID-19? Do supplements like vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, or herbals work?

Find out if natural remedies & supplements for coronavirus such as zinc, vitamin C, garlic, or elderberry help to prevent or treat COVID-19.

Supplements for Coronavirus (COVID-19)? -- mask and pills

News Release

February 28, 2015

Use of Magnesium and Probiotics Rise, Multivitamins and Weight Loss Supplements Fall, According to ConsumerLab.com Survey

White Plains, New York, February 28, 2015 — A recent survey of over 10,000 people who use dietary supplements shows the most popular dietary supplement to be fish oil, followed by multivitamins, CoQ10, vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, calcium, probiotics, and vitamin C.

Recalls & Warnings

February 17, 2021

Adam’s Secret Male Enhancement Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Drugs

On February 15, 2021, adamssecret.co issued a recall of all lots of Adam's Secret Extra Strength 1500 and Adam's Secret Extra Strength 3000 male enhancement capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil and/or tadalafil.

Recalls & Warnings

April 10, 2021

Three More Male Enhancement Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Drugs

Between March 30 and April 5, 2021, three companies issued recalls of their male enhancement capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil and/or tadalafil.

Recalls & Warnings

April 02, 2021

Three Male Enhancement Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Drugs

Between March 24 and 26, 2021, three companies issued recalls of their male enhancement capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil and tadalafil.

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2021

Seller of Omega-3 Warned for Making Claims to Treat Focus, Mood

On December 9, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bodyhealth.com, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Healthy-Thin Energize, Body Detox (Oral Spray), and Omega 3 Health to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

January 12, 2021

Seller of Cholesterol, Weight Loss Products, and More Warned for Claims

On November 17, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bonagens following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Anti-Aging Supports, Cholesterol & Diabetes Control, Gout Control, Hypertension Control, Liver Supports, Lungs ...

CL Answer

What are human growth hormone (HGH) supplements? What are the benefits? Are they safe?

Learn about the benefits and risks of human growth hormone (HGH) supplements and injections. Get science-based insights on usage and effects.

Man at gym taking supplement

CL Answer

What supplements should I stop taking before surgery?

Info on which supplements to avoid before surgery due to increased risk of bleeding or interference with anesthesia.

Supplements to stop before surgery - operating room

CL Answer

I do moderate exercise for about an hour a few times a week. Which supplements might help me, and which should I consider avoiding?

Info on what supplements are best for work out & exercise regimens, including electrolytes, protein, creatine, and BCAAs.

Supplements for Moderate Exercise

Recalls & Warnings

April 18, 2022

Moringa Concern: Blood Clots

A 63-year-old woman in New York with type 2 diabetes developed a blood clot in the lungs (i.e. pulmonary embolism) that her physicians suspect may have been caused by the use of a supplement containing Moringa oleifera extract (Ebhohon, Int J Emerg Med 2022).

Product Review

L-Lysine Supplements Review

Read L-Lysine Labels Carefully. Some Can Fool You.

Recalls & Warnings

June 16, 2004

FTC Challenges Ads for Kids’ Weight Loss Pill and Female Sexuality Supplement

On June 16, 2004 The Federal Trade Commission announced that it had charged three Florida-based companies and their principals with making false and unsubstantiated claims in connection with the advertising for “Pedia Loss,” a purported children’s weight loss product.

News Release

July 07, 2014

Which Weight Loss Supplements Are Best? ConsumerLab.com Reviews the Evidence and Tests the Quality of Popular Products

White Plains, New York, July 7, 2014 — Dozens of supplement ingredients have been touted for weight loss, but which have the strongest evidence showing they work and, among those, which products are highest in quality? To answer these questions, ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2024

Toxic Herb Found in More Tejocote Root Supplements

On January 3, 2024, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use certain tejocote root supplements after FDA laboratory analysis confirmed the products contain yellow oleander (Thevetia peruviana), a toxic herb.

Recalls & Warnings

March 02, 2005

Marketer of Weight-Loss System Settles FTC Charges of Deceptive Advertising

On March 1, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that California infomercial producer Modern Interactive Technology, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

December 22, 2008

FDA Warns Consumers About Tainted Weight Loss Pills

On December 22, 2008 the U.S. FDA alerted consumers not to purchase or consume any of more than 25 different products marketed for weight loss because they contain undeclared, active pharmaceutical ingredients that may put consumers’ health at risk.

Recalls & Warnings

August 30, 2015

Weight and Enhancement Supplements Recalled

On August 27, 2015, One Minute Miracle Inc. issued a recall of one lot each the following supplements which were found to contain undeclared drugs:

CL Answer

What are trace minerals and do I need them?

Trace minerals include boron, chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, zinc, and others. Find out what they do, how much of each trace mineral you should be getting, and who's most likely to be deficient in these minerals.

Trace Minerals - What are they and do you need them?

CL Answer

What are the possible health benefits of fenugreek, and is it safe?

Fenugreek is promoted for boosting testosterone, increasing breastmilk production, lowering blood sugar, improving symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other conditions, but does it work? Find out.

Fenugreek seed powder and capsules containing fenugreek

CL Answer

Does Qualia Mind boost memory and mental function and is it worth cost?

Learn about the ingredients in Qualia Mind, whether or not we think the formula works and is safe, and if we think it's worth the cost.

qualia-mind

CL Answer

Are light boxes effective for preventing and treating seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as "winter depression," or circadian rhythm disorders such as jet lag? Which light boxes are best?

Learn about the benefits and safety of light boxes (including who is most likely to benefit), how to use these devices, which commercially available products appear to meet the technical requirements, and who should not use light boxes.

Man reading a book while sitting in front of a light box

Recalls & Warnings

February 16, 2016

Work Out and Weight Supplements Contain Synthetic Amphetamine-Like Compound

On February 3, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to ATS Labs, LLC because labels for the company's work out and weight loss supplements CFI, Weapon-X Pre-Workout Extreme, and Lady Lean list a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound, 4-amino-2-methylpentane citrate (also called ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 16, 2016

Workout Supplement Containing Acacia Rigidula Recalled

On March 18, 2016, Nubreed Nutrition, Inc. issued a recall of all lots of its "pre-workout" supplement Undisputed which is labeled as containing Acacia rigidula, an ingredient which is not permitted in dietary supplements. 

Recalls & Warnings

March 15, 2016

FDA Warns Sellers of Weight and Workout Supplements Containing Acacia Rigidula

On March 7, 2016, the FDA issued warning letters to five sellers of supplements which were labeled as containing Acacia rigidula, an ingredient which is not permitted in dietary supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

April 08, 2016

Large Doses of Stimulant Methylsynephrine Found In Weight Loss Supplements

Amounts of methylsynephrine found in some supplements exceed prescription dosages, according to new study published in Drug Testing and Analysis.

Recalls & Warnings

April 06, 2016

FDA Warns of Stimulant Methylsynephrine In Supplements

On March 31, 2016, the FDA issued warning letters to seven companies selling products containing methylsynephrine (also called p-hydroxyephedrine or Oxilofrine), a stimulant drug which is not permitted in dietary supplements in the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

November 25, 2016

DMAA Product Recalled

On November 23, 2016, NutriVitaShop (a dba of Naturecom Inc.) issued a recall of its DMAA net weight 500g because it may contain DMAA.

Recalls & Warnings

October 13, 2017

Hi-Tech To Pay Over 40 Million to Settle FTC Charges of False Claims

On October 11, 2017, a U.S. District Judge ruled that Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 07, 2017

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled

On October 5, 2017, Kiriko, LLC recalled recalled all lots of A1 Slim 30 capsules after FDA analysis found the products to contain sibutramine, phenolphthalein and N-Desmethyl sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

September 12, 2012

Distribution of Weight Loss Product Containing DMAA Should Be Stopped Immediately, Warns FDA

On August 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Regeneca stating that the company's RegeneSlim, which was promoted as a dietary supplement for weight loss, is adulterated with dimethylamylamine (DMAA) and that failure to immediately cease distribution of this product could result in FDA ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 23, 2013

USPLabs Settles Class Action Lawsuit Over Controversial DMAA Ingredient

On December 18, 2012, a settlement was approved in the class action lawsuit against USPLabs, which alleged the company's use of the ingredient DMAA (1,3-dimethylamine) in the supplements OxyELITEPRO and Jacked3d was not safe or legal.

Recalls & Warnings

April 09, 2006

Sellers of Children’s Weight-Loss Product Settle FTC Charges

On April 6, 2006, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the marketers of Pedia Loss, a purported children’s weight-loss product, and Fabulously Feminine, a supposed female libido enhancement product, had agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission charges that they made false and ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 14, 2015

Muscle Supplement Linked to Serious Liver Injury

On April 13, 2015, the FDA warned consumers not to use the muscle growth supplement Tri-Methyl Xtreme (distributed by Extreme Products Group) because it has been linked to serious liver injury.

Recalls & Warnings

April 29, 2015

FDA Targets Weight Loss and Workout Supplements Listing Synthetic Stimulant DMBA

On April 24, 2015, the FDA issued warning letters to sellers of weight loss and workout supplements that list a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound called 1,3-dimethylbutylamine (DMBA) on product labels. 

Recalls & Warnings

November 11, 2014

Maker of Children's Vitamins, Weight Loss Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On October 30, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to VitalHealth Tech, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Kids Mighty Vites tablets, Omni Jr.

Recalls & Warnings

August 22, 2013

UK Warns Against a Weight Loss Supplement Still Available to Americans

The British government has identified the "fat-burner" supplement "I Force Dexaprine XR" as an unlicensed medical product and is instructing its retailer to remove it from the market, according to a report published in NutraIngredients.com.

Recalls & Warnings

September 27, 2013

Company Warned For Distributing Weight Loss Supplement Containing DMAA, Drug Claims

On September 6, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pure Energy Products, Inc., following a facility inspection which found that the company distributes a weight loss supplement, called obestrim, which contains dimethylamylamine, or DMAA.

Recalls & Warnings

June 23, 2013

Weight Loss Supplements Containing DMAA Recalled

On June 15, 2013, dietary supplement retailor Beta Labs, LTD issued a recall of certain lots of "fat burner" and weight loss supplements Oxyphen XR, Phentalene, Phen FX and Red Vipers because they contain 1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA).

Recalls & Warnings

January 31, 2014

Weight Loss Supplement Containing DMAA Recalled

On January 30, 2014, YoungYou International ("YoungYou") issued a voluntary recall of Mega Slim Herbal Appetite Management capsules because they were found to contain DMAA.

Recalls & Warnings

September 09, 2018

Higenamine -- A Potentially Dangerous Stimulant -- Found in Some Supplements

A recent study found concerningly high doses of the stimulant higenamine in some weight loss, energy and sports supplements sold in the U.S. Higenamine is a naturally-occurring stimulant which is permitted to be sold as a dietary supplement ingredient in the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

January 24, 2020

Fat-Burning, Energy Supplement Linked to Heart Trouble

A 33-year-old woman in Australia developed cardiac ischemia (a lack of blood flow to the heart) after taking the "fat burning" supplement Alpha Lean-7, according to a recent report in the Journal of Sports Sciences.

Recalls & Warnings

June 16, 2020

NutraCap Labs Warned for Unsafe Ingredients and Manufacturing Violations

On May 21, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to NutraCap Labs LLC, which found the company's products to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing Practices for dietary supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

December 26, 2023

Total Body Nutrition, TBN Labs, and Loud Muscle Science Banned from Selling Adulterated and Misbranded Dietary Supplements

On December 11, 2023, Total Body Nutrition LLC, TBN Labs LLC, and Loud Muscle Science LLC, as well as the companies’ owner, Mohammed Islam, were prohibited by federal court from manufacturing and distributing adulterated and misbranded dietary supplements.

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of bovine colostrum and is it safe?

Bovine colostrum is promoted for boosting immunity, preventing and treating diarrhea, and improving gut health, but does it really work? See the clinical evidence for bovine colostrum, including doses that have been used, as well as safety concerns, cost considerations, and the difference between regular bovine colostrum and hyperimmune bovine colostrum.

Bovine colostrum powder and capsule supplements

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2014

Maker of Green Coffee Bean Extract and Weight Loss Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On March 13, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Libi Labs, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 21, 2014

Seller of Weight Loss, Saw Palmetto Supplements and More Warned for Drug Claims

On October 9, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bethel Nutritional Consulting, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about 15 Day Detox Diet, Alpha Lipoic Acid. 300 mg.

Recalls & Warnings

August 31, 2012

Energy, Fat Loss Supplement Recalled For Ephedrine Alkaloids

On August 28, 2012, dietary supplement re-sale distributor Brand New Energy (BNE) issued a recall of EphBurn 25 after FDA testing found the product to contain ephedrine alkaloids.

Recalls & Warnings

October 18, 2011

FDA Warns Consumers Against Eighteen Weight Loss Products Containing Drugs

On October 18, 2011, the U.S. FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use eighteen different weight loss products found to contain undeclared drug ingredients. The products are listed below with links to more detailed information and photographs.

CL Answer

Which supplements can help me sleep and which cause insomnia?

Find out which supplements may improve sleep, including melatonin, L-tryptophan, and magnesium, and which may make sleeping more difficult.

Supplements for Sleep -- woman awake in bed

Recalls & Warnings

March 09, 2004

FTC Stops False Advertising by Makers of Weight Loss and Arthritis “Cures”

On March 9, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that several direct mail marketers have agreed to pay $2.

CL Answer

Best Supplements to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss

Discover the top supplements to prevent age-related muscle loss after 60. Learn how protein, fish oil, vitamin D, and more can help maintain muscle strength and combat sarcopenia.

CL Answer

Are supplements such as Thyroid Care Plus helpful for hypothyroidism? Can supplements worsen thyroid function? And what is nascent iodine?

Learn about supplement ingredients such as iodine, selenium, zinc, acetyl-l-carnitine, ashwagandha and guggul used for thyroid conditions and find out if they are beneficial. Also learn why ingredients such as alpha-lipoic acid, soy, resveratrol, quercetin may impair thyroid function.

Woman holding various vitamins and supplements in one hand and glass of water in the other

Recalls & Warnings

January 11, 2023

Male Sexual Enhancement Supplement Found to Contain Prescription Drug

On January 9, 2022, the FDA issued a warning letter to Distributor RFR, LLC after laboratory analysis of the company’s SANGTER Natural Male Energy Supplement found the product to contain undeclared sildenafil, a prescription medication.

News Release

December 06, 2013

Retesting Confirms Lack of Ingredient in Garcinia Cambogia Supplement

White Plains, New York, December 6, 2013 — Retesting of a dietary supplement reported in October to contain significantly less of a key ingredient than listed on its label corroborates the original findings from ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

November 19, 2013

Some Popular Weight Loss Supplements Contain as Little as 16% of Listed Ingredient, According to ConsumerLab.com

White Plains, N.Y., November 19, 2013 — Which is the best Garcinia cambogia supplement? Many people have asked this question of ConsumerLab.com since last October when The Dr. Oz Show aired a segment about using this herbal supplement for weight loss but cautioned that Dr.

News Release

May 21, 2013

Green Teas Vary in Strength and Amount of Lead Contamination, According to ConsumerLab.com

White Plains, New York, May 21, 2013 — If you drink green tea for your health, be aware that the catechin and caffeine levels can vary by more than 240% across products. Some also contain significant amounts of lead in their tea leaves. This is according to recent tests by ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2010

Supplement Company Pays $5.5 Million to Settle False Advertising Claims

On July 14, 2010, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), as part of its ongoing efforts to stop bogus health claims, announced that it is requiring a major marketer of dietary supplements to pay $5.

Recalls & Warnings

December 01, 2017

Health Research Labs Agrees to Settle FTC Charges of False Claims, Deceptive Marketing of BioTherapex and NeuroPlus

On November 30, 2017, the FTC announced Health Research Laboratories LLC and owner, Kramer Duhon, agreed to settle charges that they made false claims about the company's products, BioTherapex and NeuroPlus.

Recalls & Warnings

October 13, 2018

Pharmaceutical Drugs Found In Dietary Supplements Pose Danger to Consumers

Almost 800 dietary supplements sold between 2007 and 2016 contained unapproved pharmaceutical ingredients, according to a study published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA).

CL Answer

Can biotin supplements really strengthen nails or improve hair? Can other supplements help?

Learn more about strengthening brittle nails with vitamin B-7 (biotin), based on clinical evidence.

Supplements for Brittle Nails -- healthy nails

News Release

November 06, 2012

50% of Green Coffee Bean Supplements Don't Contain Expected Amounts of Ingredient for Weight Loss, According to ConsumerLab.com

White Plains, New York, November 6, 2012 — Clinical studies suggest green coffee bean extract (GCBE) supplements can aid weight loss, but recent tests by ConsumerLab.com indicate that many popular brands dont contain the amounts of extract listed on their labels.

CL Answer

Do hair loss supplements, such as Viviscal, Hair La Vie, and Nutrafol, or topical essential oils work?

Vitamins and supplements that may help with hair loss and thinning, including saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, protein, iron, and vitamin D.

Supplements for Hair Loss -- woman looking at hairbrush

CL Answer

Which supplements reduce hearing loss?

Can supplements such as alpha-lipoic acid, magnesium, N-acetyl-cysteine, folate or vitamins B-12, C and/or E help prevent or improve symptoms among people with hearing loss due to excessive noise or aging? Find out what the clinical evidence shows, and learn whether Advanced Hearing Formula, a supplement marketed for ear health, is likely to help.

Older man holding his hand up to his ear due to hearing loss

Recalls & Warnings

January 19, 2022

FDA Warns Seller of Carnitine and Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements

On November 18, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to GeroNova Research Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 03, 2022

Sexual Enhancement Supplement Recalled Due to Sildenafil

On August 1, 2022, DISTRIBUTOR RFR, LLC recalled one lot of SANGTER Energy Supplement 3000 mg to the consumer level after FDA analysis found the product to contain undeclared sildenafil, a prescription medication.

Recalls & Warnings

November 17, 2022

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use Male Enhancement Supplement

On November 10, 2022, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use Sangter Natural Male Energy Supplement after FDA laboratory analysis confirmed the presence of undeclared sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2022

6 Supplement Companies Warned by FDA for Making Cholesterol Claims

On May 4, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to six supplement companies following review that found statements made on company websites and Walmart purchase pages suggesting the products could lower cholesterol to be drug claims, which are not permitted for dietary supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

June 16, 2022

Omega 3 Supplements Recalled Due to Undeclared Drug Ingredients

On May 28, 2022, Latin Foods Market issued a voluntary recall of one lot of Artri King Reforzado con Ortiga y Omega 3 tablets after FDA laboratory analysis found the presence of undeclared diclofenac and dexamethasone.

Recalls & Warnings

July 26, 2022

Sexual Enhancement Supplement Sold on Amazon Recalled

On July 21, 2022, Ultra Supplements LLC issued a recall of one lot of Sustango capsules after Amazon laboratory analysis found the presence of the prescription drug Tadalafil. The company has received no reports of adverse effects related to this recall to date.

Recalls & Warnings

May 09, 2022

Natural Organics Keto Capsules Recalled Due to Gluten

On March 6, 2022, Natural Organics, Inc. issued a recall of four lots of NaturePlus Keto Living Sugar Control Capsules that were found to contain gluten.

Recalls & Warnings

July 06, 2022

FDA Warns Kratom Companies for Arthritis, Pain Relief Claims & More

On January 30, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to four sellers of kratom products because they were promoted to treat pain relief, opioid withdrawal, blood sugar control, anxiety, and to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Recalls & Warnings

July 13, 2022

FDA Warns Sellers of Tainted Honey-Based Sexual Enhancement Products

On July 12, 2022, the FDA issued warning letters to four companies selling honey-based products promoted for sexual enhancement after tests conducted by the FDA found the products to contain the prescription drugs Tadalafil and Sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2022

Honey-Based Enhancement Supplement Recalled

On July 13, 2022, Shopaax.com issued a recall of all lots of its honey-based sexual enhancement product, Kingdom Honey Royal Honey VIP, after FDA analysis found the presence of undeclared sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

April 05, 2022

Sexual Enhancement Capsules for Men Recalled

On April 1, 2022, F&S Medical Supply, dba Pink Toyz, recalled one lot of Pink Pussycat 3000 mg capsules to the consumer level because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil.

Recalls & Warnings

July 12, 2023

FDA Warns Company for Promoting Kratom Products for Pain, Mood, and More

On July 3, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to Sunshine Trading Company, Inc.

Clinical Update

1/10/2023

Calorie Restriction & Bone Loss

Reducing calorie intake can help with weight management but it can also lead to bone loss. Find out what experts have recently recommended to help curb bone loss and reduce fracture risk when dieting in our updated CL Answer about supplements and diets for osteoporosis.

Recalls & Warnings

July 09, 2010

FDA Issues Warning on Herbal Weight Loss Supplement

On July 8, 2010, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned that Que She, marketed as an herbal weight loss supplement, contains active pharmaceutical ingredients not listed on the product label that could harm consumers, especially those with cardiovascular conditions.

Recalls & Warnings

November 15, 2009

Nationwide Recall of a Weight Loss Supplement Found to Contain Undeclared Drug Ingredients

On November 12, 2009, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it informed GMP Herbal Products, Inc. that its product "Pai You Guo," a weight loss dietary supplement, contains undeclared drug ingredients.

Recalls & Warnings

March 08, 2012

Rx Drugs Found in Weight Loss and Enhancement Supplements

On February 6, 2012, FDA issued a letter to Globe All Wellness, LLC warning that two of their products contain undeclared prescription drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2012

FDA Warns Consumers of Weight Loss and Body Reshaping Supplements Containing Controlled Substance

On October 24, 2012, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use weight loss and body reshaping dietary supplement Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen Capsules (also referred to as Zi Xiu Tang Beauty, Face & Figure Capsules) because this product was found to contain sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

December 21, 2012

Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug Recalled

On December 19, 2012, P&J Trading issued a voluntary recall of SLIMDIA REVOLUTION after FDA testing found the dietary supplement contains undeclared sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

February 13, 2013

FDA Warns Maker of Weight Loss and Whey Protein Supplements For Manufacturing Violations and Misbranding

January 25, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to dietary supplement manufacturer SciLabs Nutraceuticals, following a facility inspection which found the company's dietary supplements and supplement ingredients, including N-Large 2, Flo-Gard AB, Nitrogen Glutamine capsules, Nutritech nutritional ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 12, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers About The Dangers Of DMAA

On April 11, 2013, the FDA warned consumers about the dangers of dietary supplements containing the ingredient 1,3-dimethylamylamine (DMAA).

Recalls & Warnings

August 15, 2002

FDA Warns Public About Chinese Diet Pills Containing Fenfluramine

On August 13, the U.S. FDA alerted the public about Chinese weight-loss products, Chaso (Jianfei) Diet Capsules and Chaso Genpi, because they pose a potential public health risk.

Recalls & Warnings

August 11, 2008

Stroke Attributed to Xenadrine Ephedra-Free Supplement

A case report in the journal Military Medicine (July 2008) attributes the occurance of vasospasm and stroke in a 36 year-old women to use of Xenadrine-EFX, a supplement used for weight loss.

Recalls & Warnings

February 29, 2008

FTC Sues Sellers of Weight-Loss Pills for False Advertising

On February 8, 2008 the The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged a business operation with violating federal law by falsely claiming that its weight-loss pills cause users to lose weight without dieting or exercise.

Recalls & Warnings

April 29, 2015

Teen Use of Weight Loss and Workout Supplements Labeled "For Adult Use Only" Concerning

Three new studies have raised concerns that teenagers are able to purchase "body-shaping" supplements, such as creatine, testosterone boosters, and "fat-burning" products from health food stores despite the fact that many of these supplements are labeled "for adult use only.

Recalls & Warnings

March 24, 2015

FTC Mails Refund Checks for Calcium Supplements

On March 18, 2015, the FTC announced 17,606 refund checks, totaling $954,828 were mailed to consumers who purchased the calcium supplement AdvaCAL (Lane Labs).

Recalls & Warnings

July 26, 2014

FTC Says Company Made "Outrageous" Weight Loss Claims

Marketers for the Canadian-based Freedom Center Against Obesity have agreed to pay $500,000 to settle FTC charges the company made deceptive claims about its Double Shot diet pills.

Recalls & Warnings

October 16, 2013

Methamphetamine-Like Compound Found In Popular Workout Supplement

A study published on October 14, 2013 (Cohen, Drug Test Analysis 2013) reports that the popular pre-workout energy supplement Craze (Driven Sports) has been found to contain the banned methamphetamine — like compound, N, á-diethylphenylethylamine.

Recalls & Warnings

July 20, 2017

Jail Time for Seller of Spiked Supplements

On July 18, 2017, Derek Vest, the former president of Gentech Pharmaceutical located in Fort Meyers, Florida, was sentenced to 18 months in prison for introducing misbranded food into interstate commerce.

Recalls & Warnings

September 02, 2016

Kratom To Be Classified a Schedule I Controlled Substance

On August 30, 2016, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) announced its intent to classify the active compounds (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) in kratom as Schedule I controlled substances.  

Recalls & Warnings

June 21, 2016

"Doctor Trusted" Seal and Certification Program for Dietary Supplements Misleading and Meaningless, Says FTC

SmartClick Media LLC, also doing business as Doctor Trusted, has agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that its "Doctor Trusted" seal and certificates, which appeared on some 800 websites promoting health products and dietary supplements, ...

Recalls & Warnings

March 02, 2016

Seller of Hoodia and Other Supplements Admits Fraud

On March 1, 2016, The United States Department of Justice announced that David Romeo, principal of several New Jersey- based dietary supplement companies, including Global Nutrients, Stella Labs and Nutraceuticals International, LLC, has pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute three kilograms or ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 30, 2015

Weight and Energy Supplement Contains Synthetic "Amphetamine"

On September 21, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to TruVision Health LLC. because the company's supplement tru Weight & Energy lists a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound, AMP (also called 1,3-dimethylbutylamine or DMBA) on product labels. 

CL Answer

I am female and purchased a saw palmetto supplement for hair loss, but the bottle says it is only for men. Is it unsafe for women?

Learn more about the safety of saw palmetto in women with hair loss.

Saw Palmetto for Hair Loss

News Release

February 05, 2012

Fish oil and multivitamins most popular supplements in ConsumerLab.com survey -- Internet most popular place to shop

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — FEBRUARY 5, 2012 — A survey of over 10,000 savvy consumers of supplements shows the most popular supplements to be fish oil, multivitamins, vitamin D, calcium and CoQ10, in that order.

News Release

January 17, 2012

Do African mango supplements help with weight loss? ConsumerLab.com investigates the evidence

White Plains, New York — January 17, 2012 — African mango supplements are touted to help shed pounds, but do they really work? "Long-term weight loss with African mango has not been proven," said says Tod Cooperman, M.D., President of ConsumerLab.

News Release

March 02, 2010

ConsumerLab.com finds carcinogenic form of chromium in supplements, including those for weight loss -- Reviews published of supplements containing chromium, green tea, 7-keto DHEA and stimulant formulas

White Plains, New York — March 2, 2010 — A carcinogenic form of chromium, hexavalent chromium, is present is some dietary supplements, according to new tests by ConsumerLab.com.

News Release

January 20, 2010

ConsumerLab.com finds quality of most CLA supplements for slimming to be high; One brand mislabeled -- Report is first published in series on supplements for weight loss and slimming

ConsumerLab.com Finds Quality of Most CLA Supplements for Slimming to be High; One Brand Mislabeled

News Release

August 25, 2009

ConsumerLab.com tests quality of acai berry supplements and beverages -- No contamination found but health benefits remain unproven. Caution urged with laxative formulas and billing schemes.

White Plains, New York — Tuesday, August 25, 2009 — Acai berries have antioxidant properties and are a staple of the traditional Brazilian diet. In recent years, supplements and drinks made from acai have become popular in the U.S.

News Release

May 19, 2009

Review of Magnesium Supplements by ConsumerLab.com Shows One-Quarter Fail Quality Tests

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MAY 19, 2009 — ConsumerLab.com reported today that among twelve magnesium supplements selected for testing, only nine met quality standards. One supplement contained only 45.

News Release

December 09, 2008

Tests of zinc supplements by ConsumerLab.com show only some provide dosage proven to shorten colds, reduce eye disease. Lead contamination found in one product.

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — DECEMBER 9, 2008 — Zinc supplements can shorten colds and reduce the progression of advanced macular degeneration, among other uses. But a new report by ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

Can vitamins or other supplements cause a change in the ability to taste, or even a loss of taste?

Find out if supplements or vitamin deficiencies can cause changes in taste, loss of taste or smell. Information about vitamin D, zinc, vitamins A, B6, B12 and others. Plus medications and medical conditions that can alter taste and smell. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Vitamin Deficiency, Supplements and Loss of Taste? -- man with salad looking disinterested, unhappy

CL Answer

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): How can I avoid PFAS in dental floss, food, water, and other products?

Some brands of dental floss, including Oral-B Glide, may contain potentially toxic chemicals known as PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances). Get the details, and learn which floss and pick products are our Top Picks.

Toxic PFAS Chemicals in Dental Floss -- Woman Looking at Dental Floss

Recalls & Warnings

June 02, 2022

Walmart Inc. Recalls Joint Supplements With Omega-3, Glucosamine & Curcumin

On May 28, 2022, Walmart Inc. issued a voluntary recall of all lots of Artri Ajo King Joint Supplements after FDA laboratory analysis found the presence of undeclared diclofenac.

CL Answer

What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

Learn about the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency, such as soft or weak bones, bone, joint and muscle pain, depression, insomnia, hair loss and others, and find out how much vitamin D you need. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Paper with written words “Vitamin D Deficiency”

News Release

November 18, 2008

Adulteration Suspected with Some "Memory" Supplements -- Few Ginkgo and Huperzine Supplements Pass ConsumerLab.com Tests; Quality High for Acetyl-L-Carnitine

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — NOVEMBER 18, 2008 — Tests by ConsumerLab.com of Ginkgo biloba supplements show that few products meet quality standards.

News Release

December 05, 2005

Consumerlab.com reaffirms problems with Trimspa X32

Westchester, NY — December 5, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com responded today to a press release issued by TRIMSPA seeking to refute ConsumerLab.com's test results for TRIMSPA X32, a popular weight loss supplement. ConsumerLab.

News Release

November 15, 2005

Testing by ConsumerLab.com identifies many problems with popular supplements for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control

Westchester, NY — November 15, 2005 — In a series of reports released today, ConsumerLab.com revealed test results for supplements used for weight loss, slimming, and blood sugar control. Among the twenty-three products that ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

June 02, 2020

FTC Sends Refund Checks for "ReJuvination" Supplement

On June 1, 2020, the FTC announced it is mailing 1,310 checks totaling nearly $149,000 to consumers who purchased ReJuvination, a product deceptively marketed as a cure-all for various age-related conditions, including cell damage, heart attack damage, brain damage, and deafness.

Recalls & Warnings

May 30, 2020

FTC Sends Refund Checks for TrueAloe and AloeCran

On May 26, 2020, the FTC announced it is mailing 22,581 checks totaling more than $470,000 to consumers who purchased deceptively marketed supplements, TrueAloe and AloeCran.

Recalls & Warnings

November 20, 2020

FTC Files Complaint Against Two Supplement Companies for Deceptive Marketing

On November 20, 2020, the FTC approved a Part 3 administrative complaint against Health Research Laboratories, LLC, its owner Kramer Duhon, and Whole Body Supplements, LLC for making unverified claims that their products can prevent or treat diseases.

Recalls & Warnings

June 23, 2020

BioPure Healing Products Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On June 17, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to BHP Holdings Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

June 23, 2020

FTC Sends Refund Checks to Consumers of Deceptive "Free Trial" Scheme

On June 22, 2020, the FTC announced it is mailing 187,425 checks totaling more than $8.

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2021

FDA Warns Seller of Vitamin D, Curcumin and CoQ10 Promoted for Treating COVID-19

On December 28, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Smarter Nutrition, Inc. following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Smarter Curcumin, Smarter Ubiquinol, and Smarter Vitamin D3 to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

February 02, 2021

Seller of Aloe Products Warned for Claiming to Treat Joint Stiffness

On January 22, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to American Global Health Group, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products AloeCure VeraFlex, AloeCure Advanced Formula Capsule, AloeCure Pure Aloe Vera ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 02, 2021

FDA Warns Seller of Reishi Mushroom Supplements

On January 6, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to Entia Biosciences, Inc following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Lion's Mane - All Natural Supplement, Antrodia Mushroom Powder, Maitake Mushroom Powder, Reishi ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 02, 2021

FDA Warns Seller of Ginger, Echinacea, and More

On December 10, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Prairie Dawn Herbs following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Chest Tea, Ginger Oil, Dandelion root Tincture, Echinacea purpurea Tincture, Antispasmodic Tincture, ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 21, 2021

Federal Court Bars Fusion Health From Promoting Vitamin D for COVID-19

On January 8, 2021, the United States Department of Justice announced a permanent injunction has been entered, barring dietary supplement marketer Matthew Ryncarz and his companies Fusion Health and Vitality LLC dba Pharm Origins and Fusion Ionz LLC dba Pharm Origins from making claims that their ...

Recalls & Warnings

July 20, 2021

Alpha Male Plus Recalled

On July 16, 2021, Alpha Male Plus issued a recall of Alpha Male Plus Male Enhancer fruit chews because FDA analysis found them to be contaminated with tadalafil.

Recalls & Warnings

May 24, 2021

U.S. Marshals Seize $1.3 Million Worth of Kratom

U.S. Marshals have seized approximately $1.3 million worth of bulk kratom and kratom supplements manufactured by Atofil, LLC, a subsidiary of Premier Manufacturing Products, according to the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

April 17, 2021

NS NY Distributor Inc Male Enhancement Products Recalled Due to Undeclared Drugs

On April 8, 2021, NS NY Distributor Inc issued a recall of all lots of Premium Orgazen 7000 and Ginseng Power 5000 male enhancement capsules because FDA analysis found them to contain sildenafil and/or tadalafil.

CL Answer

Do prunes increase bone density or help prevent osteoporosis?

Find out if eating prunes can increase bone density or help prevent osteoporosis.

Prunes and Osteoporosis

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2018

Marketers of CellAssure and Cognify Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Cancer Claims

On January 11, 2018, the FTC announced that CellMark Biopharma, LLC and its CEO, Derek E.

Clinical Update

7/24/2021

Vitamin D and Pregnancy Outcomes

Can taking vitamin D during pregnancy reduce the risk of preterm labor, low birth weight or pregnancy loss? Find out what a recent study showed in the Pregnancy section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplement.

CL Answer

Do electrolyte supplements, like Pedialyte, help with hangovers?

Find out if electrolyte supplements and drinks, like Pedialyte, help with hangovers. See the clinical evidence about the effects of drinking alcohol on the balance of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, plus, other tips for staying hydrated.

Hangover Pic

CL Answer

Does silica have health benefits? What is BioSil, and can it really increase collagen production and strengthen hair, skin, nails and bones?

Information about the health effects of silica (silicon dioxide) and orthosilicic acid (an ingredient in BioSil), including whether these forms of silicon can really increase collagen production, thicken hair, strengthen nails & bones.

Does BioSil Strengthen Hair, Skin and Nails? -- Bottle of BioSil

CL Answer

What is Perque Bone Guard Forté? It is safe and effective for bone health?

Find out about the ingredients in Perque Bone Guard Forté, including which ingredients may be beneficial for osteoporosis and bone health and which may be a safety concern.

Bottle of Perque Bone Guard Forte

Recalls & Warnings

July 26, 2013

Safety of Certain Weight Loss and Bodybuilding Supplements Called Into Question

On July 25, 2013, USA Today reported that several supplements, including weight loss, body building and sports nutrition supplements, have come under scrutiny after being found to contain illegal ingredients, or were associated with failed drug tests and adverse events.

Recalls & Warnings

March 13, 2015

Three Weight Loss Supplements Found to Contain Drugs

The FDA recently warned consumers not to buy or use the following weight loss supplements because they were found to contain undeclared drugs. Each was identified during an examination of international mail shipments.

Recalls & Warnings

November 02, 2008

Sales of Weight-Loss Supplement Suspended -- May Contain Diuretic Drug

On October 31, 2008, Associated Press reported that makers of the weight loss supplement StarCaps have suspended sales following accusations that the product contains a non-listed pharmaceutical diuretic, Bumetanide.

Recalls & Warnings

April 02, 2004

Makers of Fat and Starch "Blockers" Receive FDA Warning Letters

On April 1, 2004, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)announced that it had sent warning letters to 16 dietary supplement distributors making false and misleading claims for weight loss products promoted over the internet.

Recalls & Warnings

February 01, 2013

DMAA Supplement Linked to Runner's Death

The cause of death of London marathon runner Claire Squires has been ruled by the investigating coroner as cardiac failure due to extreme exertion, complicated by DMAA toxicity.

Recalls & Warnings

November 08, 2012

FDA Warns Consumers of "Slimming Coffee"

On November 8, 2012, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Best Share Green Coffee: Brazilian Slimming Coffee after FDA testing revealed the coffee, which was promoted for weight loss, contains the drug sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

October 05, 2012

Illegal Claims on Weight Loss, Immune System Dietary Supplements, and Few Backed by Clinical Data

On October 3, 2012, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued a report warning that dozens of weight loss and immune system supplements have illegal claims of curing or treating disease on their labels and/or lack the scientific evidence to support such label claims.

Recalls & Warnings

January 31, 2012

FTC Stops Fake News Sites About Acai Berry Products

As published on the U.S. Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) website on January 25, 2011, six online marketers settled with the FTC to stop posting fake news on websites intended to promote acai berry supplements and other weight-loss products.

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2012

Seller of "HCG Drops" for Weight Loss Warned by FDA and FTC of Violations

On December 21, 2011, the U.S. FDA and FTC sent a joint Warning Letter to hCG Drops LLC regarding its marketing of Slim Diet Drops. According to the letter, the product is considered an unapproved drug because it is promoted for drug-like uses on the company's website, including the following:

CL Answer

Does cooking or frying with olive oil make it less healthy?

Learn if cooking with olive oil is healthier, including evidence from clinical studies and tips to minimize the loss of healthful aspects.

News Release

August 16, 2005

ConsumerLab.com tests potassium supplements — Report now online for sixteen products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 16, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released a new report on the quality of potassium supplements. Potassium is used to treat or prevent potassium deficiency caused by diuretic drugs ("water pills"), prolonged vomiting, diarrhea or laxative abuse.

Recalls & Warnings

June 02, 2020

Sundial Herbal Ordered to Halt Distribution of Products

On June 1, 2020, a New York federal judge filed an order against two individuals doing business as Sundial Herbal Products to stop the company from distributing its products, which were found to be misbranded and promoted as drugs.

News Release

July 18, 2005

ConsumerLab.com tests menopause supplements — Alternatives to hormonal therapy — Report available for 38 products including soy and red clover isoflavones, black cohosh, and progesterone creams

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 18, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released a new report on the quality of supplements used to treat symptoms of menopause, notably hot flashes.

News Release

July 12, 2005

ConsumerLab.com finds some supplements lower in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids than claimed — Report available for 23 products made from oils of black currant, borage, evening primrose and flax

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 12, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released its latest report on the quality of supplements made from the seed oils of black currant, borage, evening primrose, and flax.

News Release

June 15, 2005

Two magnesium supplements fail testing due to lead contamination. Nineteen others pass. Report now available.

WHITE PLAINS, NY — JUNE 15, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released its latest report on the quality of magnesium supplements sold in the U.S. In addition to being an essential mineral, magnesium may help prevent migraine headaches, menstrual pain, PMS, and leg cramps during pregnancy.

News Release

April 27, 2005

ConsumerLab.com finds quality of most nutrition powders and drinks high, but identifies five protein powders with excess sodium or cholesterol — Report Now Available Online

WHITE PLAINS, NY — APRIL 27, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com has released its latest report on the quality of nutrition powders, shakes and drinks. These products are used for general nutrition, dieting, and meal-replacement and are frequently used by athletes and bodybuilders.

News Release

March 30, 2005

ConsumerLab.com finds most B-vitamins of high quality but three lacking in ingredients — Test Results for 41 Products Reported Along with Information on Use

WHITE PLAINS, NY — MARCH 30, 2005 — ConsumerLab.com reported test results today for B vitamin supplements that it recently purchased in the U.S. and Canada.

News Release

December 14, 2004

ConsumerLab.com expands testing to Japan — Testing Organization Expands to Help Japanese Consumers Determine Quality of Health and Nutrition Products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — Tuesday, December 14, 2004 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that it would begin testing products sold in Japan. Its first report is due out in early spring. In the U.S. and Canada, ConsumerLab.

News Release

April 03, 2002

More than one in five weight loss, slimming and/or diabetes supplements fail ConsumerLab.com evaluation — Problems found in chromium and pyruvate products; CLA products fine

WHITE PLAINS, NY — April 3, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that more than one in five products failed its recent Product Review of Weight Loss, Slimming and Diabetes-Management Supplements.

News Release

March 05, 2002

ConsumerLab.com finds nutrition powders & drinks more accurately labeled than nutrition bars, but unapproved food ingredient seen in some

White Plains, NY -- March 5, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that 24 of 26 nutrition powders and drinks that it recently evaluated met their label claims for carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This is in stark contrast to ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

Do biotin supplements really improve hair and nails?

Does Biotin really work for hair and nails? Find out about strengthening and growth for hair and nails.

Biotin Supplements for Hair and Nails -- woman looking at hair and nails in mirror

CL Answer

How do over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids compare to prescription hearing aids?

Non-prescription hearing aid reviews, including MD Hearing Aid, Eargo Hearing Aid, Liberty Hearing Aid, etc. Compare quality & cost with prescription hearing aids.

OTC hearing aids

CL Answer

How Should You Take Care of Yourself After You’ve Had COVID-19?

Find out the best way to care for yourself when recovering from COVID-19, including how long you should quarantine, whether you should get vaccinated, when it is safe to undergo a surgery, and how to spot and, possibly, improve lingering symptoms.

Man in wheelchair talking with doctor after recovering from COVID

CL Answer

Does OsteoMD improve calcium absorption and increase bone density?

ConsumerLab reviews the evidence for OsteoMD by 1MD, a bone health supplement promoted to slow bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

OsteoMD by 1MD

Recalls & Warnings

June 05, 2020

Seller of CBD, Sleep Aids, and Cold & Flu Products Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On April 28, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to The Dragontree Apothecary LLC, which found the company's Sleep Support, Anxiety Relief, Cold & Flu Relief, and Inflammation Relief to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 26, 2020

Company Failed to Report Adverse Events Associated With Its Nutrition Shakes

On February 12, 2020, the FDA sent a warning letter to Market America Inc for failure to submit serious adverse event reports about two of its products, as required by federal regulation. The company received two reports following serious adverse events but did not submit the proper forms:

Recalls & Warnings

May 12, 2020

FTC Halts Deceptive Supplements & Cosmetics "Free Trial" Scheme

On May 8, 2020, the owners of AH Media Group, LLC agreed to halt their allegedly deceptive practice of luring consumers with supposed "free trial" offers for cosmetics and dietary supplements, then enrolling them in subscriptions and billing them without their consent.

Recalls & Warnings

October 12, 2020

NutraClick to Pay $1.04 Million for Illegally Billing Consumers

On September 22, 2020, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that NutraClick LLC agreed to pay $1.04 million to settle FTC charges that the company was deceptively selling and billing consumers for supplements and beauty products.

Recalls & Warnings

November 24, 2020

Recalled Vitamin D Contains Potentially Dangerous Ingredient

On November 22, 2020, Fusion Health and Vitality LLC recalled all 2020 lots of CORE Essential Nutrients and Immune Boost Sublingual Vitamin D3 because they are adulterated. CORE Essential Nutrients contains the unapproved food additive hordenine HCl.

CL Answer

Can CoQ10 or ubiquinol be ruined by heat? I recently purchased several bottles of Qunol Plus from Costco.com and they arrived hot. The soft gels are not melted, but I am concerned.

Find out whether your CoQ10 or ubiquinol supplement can be destroyed by heat during shipping and at what temperature CoQ10 softgels can melt. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Box of Vitamins and Supplements

CL Answer

Can drinking coffee weaken bones or make arthritis worse?

Learn about the effects of coffee intake on bone mineral density, risk of osteoporosis, and risk of fracture. Also, find out if drinking coffee might increase the risk of arthritis or worsen symptoms.

CL Answer

A tea called Throat Coat made me lethargic and I was found to have low potassium. Is this a known problem? I was drinking 5 cups a day.

Throat Coat tea information, including licorice root content, potassium loss, and symptoms such as lethargy, increased blood pressure and fluid retention. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Throat Coat Tea and Potassium Loss -- box of Throat Coat tea

Recalls & Warnings

December 06, 2011

FTC Stops Operator of Fake News Sites Offering Acai and Colon Cleanse Products

On December 1, 2011, The Federal Trade Commission announced that it has filed a complaint jointly with the State of Connecticut, seeking to permanently stop a Connecticut-based operation that allegedly used fake news websites to promote their products, made deceptive weight-loss claims, and told ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 23, 2014

Maker of Joint and Weight Products Warned for Hidden Drugs, Manufacturing Violations

On September 15, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to West Coast Laboratories, Inc., because the company's joint health supplements, Super ArthGold and Pro ArthMax, were found to contain hidden drugs.

CL Answer

Does urolithin A reduce age-related muscle decline, osteoarthritis, or other age-related diseases?

Find out if urolithin A may improve age-related muscle decline and learn about its safety.

Older couple walking together to exercise

News Release

February 08, 2002

Athletic Banned Substances Screening and Certification Program announced by ConsumerLab.com — Tester of supplements to screen for substances banned in Olympics

WHITE PLAINS, NY — February 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

CL Answer

I've read that magnesium deficiency is rare but also that most people don't get enough magnesium. How can these both be true?

Learn how common magnesium deficiency is, and why, even if you are not deficient, you may still benefit from getting more magnesium. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Magnesium Deficiency -- check list on paper 'Are you getting enough magnesium?'

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2020

FTC Warns 30 More Companies for Coronavirus Claims

On June 18, 2020, the FTC announced that it sent warning letters to 30 companies for selling products such as immune system boosters, colloidal silver, vitamin C, and CBD with unsupported claims that they can treat coronavirus (COVID-19).

Recalls & Warnings

September 03, 2019

Federal Court Shuts Down Two Supplement Companies Selling Weight, Joint Health and Other Supplements

On September 3, 2019, a U.S. District Court entered a consent decree of permanent injunction against Basic Reset and Biogenyx, two Tennessee-based companies that sell dietary supplements and other product promoted for health benefits.

Recalls & Warnings

June 03, 2019

Vinpocetine May Cause Miscarriage or Fetal Harm

Women who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should not take Vinpocetine because it may cause miscarriage or harm fetal development, the FDA warned in a news release today.

Recalls & Warnings

June 12, 2014

Marketers of Memory Supplement Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Claims

Martek Biosciences Corporation and i-Health Inc., marketers of BrainStrong Adult, have agreed to settle Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charges that claims the supplement could improve adult memory and prevent cognitive decline were deceptive, and not supported by sufficient clinical evidence.

Recalls & Warnings

April 18, 2014

FDA Questions Ingredient in Workout Supplement

On April 4, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Driven Sports Inc., following a label review which found the company's workout supplement, CRAZE, to be adulterated because it contains the new dietary ingredient Dendrobex.

Recalls & Warnings

July 24, 2013

USPLabs Destroys $8 Million Worth of Supplements Containing DMAA

On July 16, 2013, the FDA announced that USPLabs voluntarily destroyed its inventory of OxyElite Pro and Jack3d, workout supplements that contain DMAA. DMAA has been linked to a number of adverse effects and is not allowed to be sold as a dietary supplement ingredient.

Recalls & Warnings

September 05, 2013

Seller of Herbal Supplements and "Tonics" Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On May 24, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Sundial Herbal Products following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Woman Back Tonic, Koromantee, Wood and Root Tonic, Arthritis, Asthma, Diabetics, Sundial Ashanti Weight Loss Energy Lifter, Appetite Suppresser, ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 16, 2013

Maker of Energy, Weight Loss, Sleep and Vitamin D Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On July 22, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to N.V.E. Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

November 20, 2013

Another Meth-Like Compound Discovered In Weight Loss Supplements

A "non-natural" amphetamine-like compound, identified as beta-methylphenethylamine, was discovered in nine supplements recently tested by FDA scientists.

Recalls & Warnings

May 20, 2015

Supplements to Eliminate Gray Hair Not Supported by Science, Says FTC

On May 13, 2015, the FTC announced marketers of GetAwayGrey and Rise-N-Shine, dietary supplements promoted to reverse or prevent gray hair, have agreed to settle charges that claims made about the products are not supported by science.

Recalls & Warnings

May 16, 2015

FTC Mails Refund Checks to Nopalea Consumers

On May 15, 2015, the FTC announced it is mailing almost 500,000 checks totaling approximately $3 million to consumers who purchased the cactus-based fruit drink Nopalea (TriVita Inc).

Recalls & Warnings

July 26, 2014

Marketers of Nopal Cactus Drink Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Claims

TriVita Inc., and marketers of the company's "prickly pear" fruit drink Nopalea have agreed to pay $3.5 million in consumer refunds to settle FTC charges they made deceptive claims that the drink treats health problems ranging from skin conditions to joint pain and respiratory problems.

Recalls & Warnings

September 30, 2014

U.S. Marshals Seize $5 Million Worth of Kratom

On September 25, 2014, U.S. Marshals seized more than 25,000 pounds of raw kratom valued at over $5 million from Rosefield Management, Inc. in Van Nuys, California. The action was taken at the request of the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

December 30, 2014

Maker of Aloe, Weight Loss Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On December 17, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Dandy Day Corporation, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Aloe Pearl, Alfalo, Aloespring, Crave Away, Original Supreme Energy, Ener "G," Can G, Flora G, Flora G Plus, and Garolic, to be adulterated ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 06, 2015

POM Wonderful Claims Were Deceptive, Court Rules

On January 30, 2015, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that an appeals court has upheld the Commission's ruling that marketers for POM Wonderful made deceptive health claims about the product.

Recalls & Warnings

February 25, 2011

Weight Supplement Found by FDA to Contain Prescription Drug

The U.S. FDA posted an announcement (dated February 9, 2011) by Svelte 30 Nutritional Consultants indicating that a sample of Svelte 30 orange & gray capsule was collected and tested by FDA in January 2011.

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2011

Weight Loss Supplement Containing a Drug Can Cause Serious Adverse Events, Warns FDA

On December 31, 2010 the U.S. FDA warned consumers not to use Fruta Planta weight loss products because they contain sibutramine, a drug withdrawn from the market in December 2010 for safety reasons.

Recalls & Warnings

July 19, 2010

FDA Warns of Drug in Herbal Slimming Supplement

On July 19, 2010, the U.S. FDA issued a safety warning to consumers regarding Slim-30 Herb Supplement. FDA analysis of the product found it to contain undeclared N-Desmethyl Sibutramine and traces of Sibutramine. Sibutramine is an FDA-approved drug used as an appetite suppressant for weight loss.

Recalls & Warnings

December 08, 2009

Warning on Acai Berry Supplements Spiked with Drug

On December 8, 2009, Health Canada (the Canadian health agency) advised consumers not to use certain Acai Berry products after a large number of shipments of adulterated products were stopped at the border.

Recalls & Warnings

January 24, 2013

"Thermo Stimulating" Supplement Recalled -- Contained DMAA

On January 23, 2013, Health Canada advised consumers not to use certain batches of Muscletech Hydroxystim capsules which were found to contain DMAA (1,3-dimethylamylamine) and have been recalled by their distributor.

Recalls & Warnings

February 20, 2013

FDA Warns USPLabs For Adulteration and Drug Claims

On December 4, 2012 the FDA issued a warning letter to USPLabs, LLC following facility inspections which found the company's products, including dietary supplements Jacked3d, OxyElite Pro, Prime, and Super Cissus, to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that ...

Recalls & Warnings

November 12, 2017

Weight Loss and Cleanse Supplements Contain Adulterated and Improperly Labeled Ingredients, FDA Warns

On November 2, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Create-A-Pack Foods, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 11, 2016

Seller of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Settles FTC Charges of False Advertising

On October 5, 2016, the FTC announced the sellers of the liquid glucosamine and chondroitin supplement Supple (Supple LLC) agreed to settle charges they made false claims about the product.

Recalls & Warnings

October 01, 2016

No Evidence Supplement Can Reverse or Prevent Gray Hair, Says FTC

On September 23, 2016, the FTC announced a U.S. district court has issued a judgement prohibiting the makers of Grey Defence dietary supplements from making claims the products can reverse or prevent grey hair, unless they are not misleading and are supported by reliable scientific evidence.

Recalls & Warnings

October 17, 2015

23,000 ER Visits Linked to Supplements: Palpitations, Swallowing Problems, Allergies Common

Approximately 23,000 emergency room visits per year are attributed to adverse events linked to the use dietary supplements, according to a large, long-term study by the FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Recalls & Warnings

August 22, 2015

Synthetic Amphetamine, Less Protein and More Sugar Than Claimed Found in Workout Supplements

On August 7, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to New Dawn Nutrition, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 12, 2015

Marketers of Memory Supplement to Pay $1.4 Million to Settle FTC Charges

On July 8, 2015, the FTC announced the marketers of Procera AVH (Brain Research Labs Inc.) have agreed to pay $1.4 million to settle charges they made deceptive claims that the supplement could significantly improve memory, mood and cognitive function.

Recalls & Warnings

January 12, 2016

Over $400,000 Worth of Kratom Supplements Seized by U.S. Marshals

On January 6, 2016, U.S. Marshals seized nearly 90,000 bottles of dietary supplements labeled as containing kratom (brand name RelaKzpro) valued at over $400,000, from Dordoniz Natural Products LLC in South Beloit, Illinois. The action was taken at the request of the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

February 03, 2016

Seller of Weight and Enhancement Supplements Warned For Drug Claims

On December 11, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to The One Minute Miracle, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about   Miracle Diet 30 and Miracle Rock 48 to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

January 21, 2016

Morphine Found in Licorice Product

On January 20, 2016, Master Herbs, Inc. issued a recall of all lots of Licorice Coughing Liquid because it was found to contain morphine.

Recalls & Warnings

August 05, 2016

U.S. Marshals Seize $150,00 Worth of Kratom

On August 4, 2016, the FDA announced that U.S. Marshals seized approximately $150,000 worth of dietary supplements labeled as containing kratom from Nature Therapeutics (dba Kratum Therapy). The action was taken at the request of the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

April 05, 2016

Muscle Enhancement Supplement Recalled

On April 5, 2016, Invisiblu International LLC issued a recall of one lot of the muscle enhancement supplement Continuum Labs LGD-Xtreme because it contains LGD-4033 Ligandrol. The risks of this ingredient are not known.

Recalls & Warnings

April 16, 2019

DMHA and Phenibut Are Not Permitted in Dietary Supplements, Warns FDA

On April 16, 2019, the FDA announced it has issued 11 warning letters to companies whose dietary supplement products contain the drugs DMHA or phenibut, and therefore are in violation of the law.

Recalls & Warnings

April 12, 2019

CDC: Kratom Linked to 91 Deaths

Kratom may have played a role in twice as many deaths as has been previously estimated, according to a report issued today by the Center of Disease Control (CDC).

Recalls & Warnings

November 26, 2019

FDA Warns Companies Selling CBD Products as Dietary Supplements

On November 25, 2019, the FDA issued warning letters to 15 companies for selling products containing CBD (cannabidiol) labeled and marketed as dietary supplements, and/or for making drug claims about these products.

Recalls & Warnings

June 04, 2004

FTC Charges Marketers of Two Supplements with False Claims to Cure Range of Diseases

On June 3, 2004 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged marketers of two dietary supplements with falsely claiming that their products can prevent and cure cancer and other diseases. According to the FTC’s complaint, Boston-area marketers Direct Marketing Concepts, Inc. (DMC), ITV Direct, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

June 09, 2005

FTC Cracks Down on "HGH" Supplements; $20 Million in Consumer Redress

On June 9, 2005, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that two Florida businesses have agreed to a federal court order requiring them to pay up to $20 million in consumer redress – the largest monetary judgment ever obtained in an FTC health fraud case – to settle charges that they ...

Clinical Update

8/26/2024

Supplements for Muscle Loss?

What is the best supplement to prevent age-related muscle loss, and do any other supplements help? Find out in our article about supplements to prevent age-related muscle loss.

Recalls & Warnings

June 25, 2019

Kratom Is Dangerous and Not Proven to Treat Addiction, FDA Warns Marketers

On June 25, 2019, the FDA issued warning letter to two marketers and distributors of kratom products, listed below, for illegally selling unapproved, misbranded kratom-containing drug products with unproven claims about their ability to treat or cure opioid addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

Clinical Update

4/22/2022

Rosemary for Hair Loss?

Does applying rosemary oil to the scalp reverse male pattern baldness? Find out what research shows in our updated answer about hair loss supplements.

Clinical Update

2/23/2022

Leucine for Muscle Loss?

Did leucine supplementation improve physical function in people ages 70 and older with age-related muscle loss in a recent study? Find out in the Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.

Also see our answer to the question: Which vitamins and minerals should someone over 70 take?

Clinical Update

3/01/2022

COVID-19 and Hair Loss?

Can COVID-19 cause hair loss? Find out in How to You Take Care of Yourself After You’ve Had COVID-19.

Clinical Update

10/07/2022

Topical Dutasteride for Hair Loss?

Is the prostate drug dutasteride effective for treating loss of hair when given topically, like minoxidil? Find out in our article about Treatments for Hair.

Clinical Update

3/29/2024

Vitamin D & Prostate Cancer-Related Bone Loss

Taking high-dose vitamin D during androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer may help some men prevent bone loss, according to a recent study. Get the details in the Prostate Cancer section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for vitamin D.

Clinical Update

6/14/2024

Probiotic for Bone Loss?

Did taking a probiotic reduce loss of bone mineral density in older women? Find out in the Bone density and fractures section of our Probiotic Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among probiotics.

Also see: Do any supplements or diets help prevent or treat osteoporosis?

Clinical Update

10/03/2023

Reducing Age-Related Muscle Loss

Do any supplements help build and maintain muscle and strength as we age? Find out in our article about supplements and age-related muscle loss.

Clinical Update

5/31/2023

Loss of Response to Melatonin

Some people may experience a “loss of response” to melatonin. Find out what may cause it and what to do if it happens in the ConsumerTips section of our Melatonin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for melatonin.

Clinical Update

9/03/2024

HMB for Muscle Loss With Age?

Can taking HMB (hydroxymethylbutyrate) help build muscle mass and strength in older men and women? Find out in our updated article about supplements for age-related muscle loss.

Also see our Top Picks among muscle & workout supplements.

Clinical Update

9/02/2017

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Aids Fat Loss

A study among overweight women found that substituting extra virgin olive oil for another plant oil led to greater losses of body fat during dieting. See the details in the "What It Does" section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oils Review -- which includes our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.

Clinical Update

10/06/2013

Vitamin D for Post-Menopausal Women

A study compared the effects of low-dose and high-dose vitamin D on bone mineral density in post-menopausal women who were also supplemented with calcium. Both dosages helped prevent loss of bone mineral density, but the higher dose was less efficient in reducing bone turnover, i.e., bone loss, contrary to what the researchers expected.  For details, including dosage, see the updated Vitamin D Supplements Review>>

Clinical Update

9/15/2020

Preventing Muscle Loss with Leucine?

Do supplements with leucine (a branched-chain amino acid or BCAA) prevent muscle loss when muscles are immobilized (such as in a leg brace)? See what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

8/27/2019

Whey Protein for Muscle Gain and Fat Loss?

Did drinking whey protein after resistance exercise help prevent muscle loss and reduce body fat in obese women? See what a recent study found in the Building and maintaining muscle section of the Protein Powders, Shakes and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein powders and shakes.

Clinical Update

12/02/2020

Vitamin D and Hearing Loss

A recent analysis showed low levels of vitamin D to be associated with hearing loss. Learn more in the What It Does section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.

Clinical Update

5/25/2021

Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?

Find out if creatine supplements cause hair loss. See the Concerns and Cautions section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks for creatine supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

October 12, 2005

Supplement Company to Pay $2 Million Penalty For Alleged Violations of FTC Order

On October 12, 2005 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that under the terms of a consent decree approved by the it for submission by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to the federal court for approval, NBTY, Inc. (NBTY, formerly Nature’s Bounty, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2007

Canada Warns of Weight Loss Supplement with Rx Drug

On March 14, 2007, Health Canada advised consumers not to use MIAOZI Slimming Capsules because they have been found to contain sibutramine, a prescription medication that should only be taken under medical supervision.

Recalls & Warnings

October 10, 2003

Government Stops Sale of Supplements Claiming to Treat Obesity and Impotence

On October 8, 2003, The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that on September 22, 2003, U.S. District Court Judge Robert J. Vining, Jr.

Recalls & Warnings

March 01, 2013

Manufacturer of Joint, Weight Loss, Muscle Supplements and More Warned for Adulteration, Misbranding and Drug Claims

On February 4, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to DC Nutrition, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 01, 2013

Fat Loss and Muscle Enhancement Supplements Found To Contain DMAA

On June 17, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Formulife, Inc., dba Purus Labs, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the dietary supplements Fat Smack XR Thermolipolytic, Muscle Marinade Fresh Fruit and Muscle Marinade Cherry Limeade to contain DMAA.

Recalls & Warnings

October 28, 2015

GNC Accused of Selling Supplements with Unlawful Ingredients

On October 22, 2015, Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum filed a lawsuit against supplement retailer GNC, alleging that the company sold products that were adulterated with BMPEA and picamilon, which are not lawful dietary supplement ingredients.

Recalls & Warnings

November 06, 2018

Dog Food Recalled After Reports of Vitamin D Toxicity

On November 2, 2018, Natural Life Pet Products and Nutrisca issued a recall of certain dry dog foods because they contain elevated levels of vitamin D. The elevated levels of vitamin D were found during an investigation into several reports of vitamin D toxicity by pet owners.

Recalls & Warnings

November 27, 2018

More Dog Food Recalled Due to Risk of Vitamin D Toxicity

On November 27, 2018, Sunshine Mills, Inc. issued a recall of select Evolve Puppy, Sportsman's Pride Large Breed Puppy and Triumph Chicken and Rice Dog Food because they may contain elevated levels of vitamin D.

Clinical Update

10/17/2023

Spinach and Weight

Can supplementing with a compound derived from spinach help decrease body weight or improve weight maintenance? Find out in the What They Do section of our Greens Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among fruits, veggies, and greens supplements.

Clinical Update

9/28/2022

Spark Keto for Weight?

A CL Member asked if Spark Keto (a.k.a. K3 Spark), can help with weight management. Find out what research suggests in the Appetite Suppressants section of our CL Answer about Supplements for Weight.

Clinical Update

3/04/2022

Protein Shake for Weight Management?

Can drinking a protein and fiber shake improve weight management in overweight people when used along with diet and exercise? Find out what a recent study found in the Weight management section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders, shakes and drinks.

Clinical Update

3/29/2014

Vitamin D for Weight?

A study of overweight women who were dieting and exercising found that taking vitamin D did not increase the amount of weight they lost. Those attaining the highest blood levels of vitamin D did lose more weight than other women, but this may not have been due to vitamin D. For details about the study, information about other uses of vitamin D, and our tests of vitamin D supplements, see the updated Vitamin D Supplements Review >> 

Recalls & Warnings

February 05, 2019

Hill's Science Diet, Prescription Diet Dog Food Recalled Due to Risk of Vitamin D Toxicity

Recall Expanded (3/20/19): This recall was expanded to include additional products.

Recalls & Warnings

November 27, 2018

High Levels of Lead Found in Kratom Products

Some kratom products contain levels of lead and nickel that are not considered safe for human consumption, according to tests conducted by the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

September 19, 2018

Seller of Curcumin, Garcinia, Glucosamine and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On September 7, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Best Nutrition Products, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 10, 2018

Blissful Remedies Kratom Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On June 30, 2018, Blissful Remedies issued a recall of three kratom products because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.  

Recalls & Warnings

December 08, 2017

Limbrel Capsules for Osteoarthritis Linked With Potentially Life-Threatening Health Risk, FDA Warns

On December 4, 2017, the FDA urged consumers not to take Limbrel (Primus Pharmaceuticals), a capsule marketed to manage the metabolic processes associated with osteoarthritis, because it has been associated with serious adverse events, including drug-induced liver injury and a lung ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 21, 2018

NxtGen Botanicals Maeng Da Kratom Recalled

On April 18, 2018, NGB Corp. of West Jordan, Utah issued a recall of NxtGen Botanicals Maeng Da Kratom labeled bottles of encapsulated product because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella. To date, one illness has been reported to the FDA.

Recalls & Warnings

April 09, 2018

Kratom Powders and Capsules Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On April 5, 2018, Club 13 issued a recall of certain kratom powders and capsules because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

February 06, 2018

FDA Links 44 Deaths to Kratom

On February 6, 2018, FDA announced it is now aware of 44 deaths associated with the use of kratom, an herb often promoted for pain relief, energy and for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms. This is an increase from the 36 deaths associated with kratom that the agency reported in November 2017.

Recalls & Warnings

March 04, 2003

U.S. Warns of Ephedra Risks and Proposes Warning Label for Supplements

On February 28, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced a series of actions designed to protect Americans from potentially serious risks of dietary supplement products containing ephedra.

Clinical Update

12/06/2020

Yacon Syrup for Weight Management?

A new study tested whether yacon syrup can affect hunger hormones and decrease appetite after eating. See the results in our updated answer to the question: Does yacon syrup help with weight management? How do I find a quality brand?

Clinical Update

6/08/2021

Melatonin & Weight

Can melatonin supplementation improve sleep or reduce weight? See what a new study among nightshift workers found in the What It Does section of the Melatonin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for melatonin.

Clinical Update

7/31/2021

Gynostemma for Weight?

Can taking Gynostemma pentaphyllum extract help reduce weight? We've added information about this to our article about Gynostemma (which is also promoted for diabetes and high cholesterol treatment).

Clinical Update

12/03/2021

Peanuts for Obesity?

Can eating peanuts help manage weight, or reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels? Find out what a recent study found in our updated answer about Supplements and Weight Management.

Clinical Update

6/18/2014

Does Green Tea Really Help With Weight?

A new study found that a popular green tea extract did not cause a reduction in weight compared to placebo, despite the fact that some previous studies have shown a benefit. Get more details, including which green tea extract was used, in the update to the Green Tea Supplements, Drinks and Teas Review >>   

Clinical Update

3/09/2011

Fish Oil Helps in Chemotherapy

A recent study in lung cancer patients showed that those using fish oil supplementation during initial chemotherapy tended to maintain their muscle and total weight while those who did not lost 5 lbs of weight on average (2.2 lbs of which was muscle). See the Fish Oil (Omega-3) Product Review for more details, including the dosage used. More >>

Clinical Update

6/16/2013

Stimulant Supplements

Have you ever wondered what taking a stimulant supplement for weight management or energy might do to your body? Researchers recently gave Zantrex-3, Xenedrine EFX, Metabolift, or a brand of Guarana to young men while monitoring their heart rates and other vital signs, and recording side effects. The results raise concerns. Get the details, plus test results for 14 other supplements, in the updated Weight Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

7/01/2012

Does Vitamin D Help Manage Weight?

If you've been reading our recent newsletters, many reports are being published about the effects of vitamin D. Here's one more: People with higher levels of vitamin D tend to put on less weight than people with lower levels. See the details in the update to the Vitamin D Supplements ReviewMore >>

Clinical Update

2/26/2012

CLA For Weight Management

A new study in obese individuals found that taking a supplement with CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) for twelve weeks reduced body fat and, to a lesser degree, body weight. But CLA has other metabolic effects that need to be considered. See the update to the CLA Supplements Review which has details on dosage and potential side effects, as well as our product tests. More >>

Clinical Update

6/03/2015

Green Tea for Weight Control?

Many studies have looked at whether green tea can help with weight management. The results have been mixed. A recently published study used a high-dose green tea extract. Although the researchers concluded it worked, a closer look suggests otherwise, and points to a potential risk. For details, as well as the results of our tests of green tea supplements, beverages, and brewable green tea, see the Green Tea Review >>

Clinical Update

7/11/2015

Green Tea for Weight Management?

Green tea has been touted for weight management, but a recent study with a green tea extract casts doubt. More details are found in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Review >>

Clinical Update

10/27/2015

Prebiotic Helps With Weight

A certain prebiotic was found to increase the amount of weight men and women lost while on a calorie-restricted diet. For details, including brand and dosage, plus our tests of popular probiotics and prebiotics, see the Probiotic Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

3/13/2018

Apple Cider Vinegar for Decreasing Appetite & Weight

Apple cider vinegar is often promoted for decreasing appetite and weight, but there have been few studies to show whether it works. Find out what a new study found in the Apple Cider Vinegar Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among products).

Clinical Update

7/28/2020

Can Alpha-Lipoic Acid Lower Weight?

Alpha-lipoic acid was given to overweight men and women for 24 weeks in a recent study. Find out if it lowered weight and triglyceride levels in the What It Does section of the Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for alpha-lipoic acid.

Clinical Update

7/14/2020

Coconut Oil for Lowering Weight and Cholesterol?

Can adding coconut oil to dinner lower weight and/or lower cholesterol levels? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Coconut and MCT Oils Review. Also see our Top Picks among coconut oils and MCT oils.

Clinical Update

2/13/2017

Probiotics and Weight?

Several studies, including a recent one in Brazil, suggest that probiotics can help with weight reduction or other aspects of slimming. The studies published to-date, however, have limitations. For more details, see the "What It Does" section of the Probiotics Supplements Review (which includes our tests of products) >>

Clinical Update

11/04/2018

Curcumin for Weight?

Can curcumin help you lose body weight? Find out what a new review concluded in the What It Does section of the Curcumin and Turmeric Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for curcumin and turmeric supplements.)

Clinical Update

10/10/2020

Ginger for Weight Management?

Can ginger help burn calories and reduce weight? Find out what recent studies show in the What It Does section of our Ginger Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for ginger.

Clinical Update

1/06/2023

Ketone Supplements?

Did taking a ketone supplement help with weight management a recent study? Find out in our article about supplements for weight management.

Clinical Update

1/20/2023

Creatine & Weight Gain?

Does supplementation with creatine cause water retention or weight gain? Find out what a recent study suggests in the updated Concerns and Cautions section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for creatine and BCAA workout supplements.

Clinical Update

11/01/2022

Protein & Nutrition Bars -- Watch Out for Weight Gain

Protein and nutrition bars can be a convenient way to get protein, fiber, and other nutrients, but they can lead to weight gain according to a recent study. The details are in our Protein and Nutrition Bars Review.

Clinical Update

8/02/2022

Ginger & Weight Management

Does taking ginger improve weight management among women? Learn what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Ginger Supplements Review.

Recalls & Warnings

January 11, 2002

Canada Requests Recall of Certain Ephedra/Ephedrine Products

OTTAWA - January 10, 2002 - Health Canada is requesting a recall from the market of certain products containing Ephedra/ephedrine after a risk assessment concluded that these products pose a serious risk to health.

Recalls & Warnings

January 17, 2006

FDA Warns Consumers about Brazilian Diet Pills Found to Contain Active Drug Ingredients

On January 13,2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers not to use two unapproved drug products that are being marketed as dietary supplements for weight loss.

Recalls & Warnings

October 06, 2005

Deceptive Marketing of “Supreme Greens" -- Settlement with FTC

On October 6, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that three individuals and two companies have settled FTC charges over their roles in the deceptive marketing of Supreme Greens, an herbal supplement.

Recalls & Warnings

September 23, 2005

FTC Continues Litigation Against Makers of CortiSlim and CortiStress Supplements

On September 21, 2005 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that three defendants will give up $4.

Recalls & Warnings

November 28, 2008

Fat Loss Supplement Recalled for Containing Prescription Drug

On November 26, 2008, the FDA reported that Zhen De Shou Fat Loss Capsules are being recalled by the distributor, Fashion Sanctuary. FDA analysis found the product to contain undeclared sibutramine, an FDA approved drug used as an appetite suppressant for weight loss.

Clinical Update

10/05/2021

Silica for Dental Implant Inflammation?

Can a form of silica typically promoted for hair, skin, nail and bone health also help reduce inflammation and bone loss around dental implants? See what a recent study found in our updated article about Silica Supplements.

Clinical Update

1/11/2022

Supplement for Thinning Hair?

A reader asked if taking Hair La Vie Clinical Formula can help with thinning hair. Find out in our updated article about Supplements for Hair Loss.

Clinical Update

6/02/2013

Don't Drink Too Much Tea!

After publication of our Green Tea Review last month, a CL member emailed us about the potential danger of getting too much fluoride from tea. Although this won't happen from just a few cups of tea daily, there have been recent cases where habitually drinking extremely large amounts of tea has caused "fluorosis" causing bone pain and even tooth loss. See the warning (and our tests of green tea products) in the updated Green Tea Review >>

Clinical Update

5/27/2013

Alzheimer's Changes Slowed with B Vitamins

A combination of B vitamins was found to slow brain loss in areas of the brain associated with Alzheimer's disease. This same combination of vitamins has also been shown to slow cognitive decline. Get the details on who may (or may not) benefit, dosage, plus test results for over 35 B vitamin supplements in the updated B Vitamin Supplements Product Review >>

Clinical Update

9/29/2013

When Vitamin D Doesn't Help

A recent study in postmenopausal women in New York showed that taking a vitamin D supplement did not reduce bone loss (based on measurements of markers of bone turnover). However, calcium supplementation did appear to help. Why? It all has to do with how much vitamin D and calcium the women were already getting without the supplements. You can find out the amounts and get more details in the update to the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

11/10/2013

Amino Acids Speed Recovery From Knee Surgery

A study of men and women receiving knee replacement surgery showed that taking essential amino acids (including branched-chain amino acids) twice daily before and after surgery reduced muscle loss and speeded recovery. For details, including dosage, plus our reviews of amino acid supplements, see the updated Muscle Enhancers Review >> 

Clinical Update

4/04/2017

Curcumin for Muscle Soreness?

Several studies have evaluated curcumin to reduce muscle soreness, pain, and loss of power after exercise. The most recent study showed little benefit. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the new Turmeric/Curcumin Supplements & Spices Review >>

Clinical Update

6/23/2018

Probiotics for Bones

Can taking a daily probiotic help reduce bone loss? Find out what a year-long study showed in the Bone density and fractures section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements.)

Clinical Update

9/19/2017

Niacinamide for Alzheimer's Disease?

Niacinamide (a form of niacin) has been promoted as a way to protect against memory loss associated with Alzheimer's disease – a claim based on studies in mice. A recent study put this to the test in people. See the results in the "Niacin" section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

2/07/2018

Does Protein Hurt Bones?

It has been speculated that high-protein diets can result in calcium loss from bone. A recent study tested this. Get the results in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Protein Powders Review -- which also discusses a concern with dehydration. (If you use protein powders, see our Top Picks).

Clinical Update

4/30/2016

Probiotic for Fat Loss

A new study found that a probiotic decreased body fat in overweight adults, without diet or exercise. The probiotic in the study differs from many on the market in an interesting way. Get more information about this and other studies with probiotics, as well as our tests of products, in the Probiotic Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

3/29/2017

Vitamin E/Selenium & Alzheimer's

A long-term study among men in the U.S. found that giving high doses of vitamin E and/or selenium did not significantly affect their risk of developing dementia. The study was part of a larger study which found that these supplements increased the risk of prostate cancer, type 2 diabetes, hair loss, and dermatitis. For details, see the "Alzheimer's disease/dementia" section of the Selenium Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

9/16/2015

Soy Isoflavones Maintain Bone Calcium

A new study showed that soy isoflavones can reduce loss of calcium from bones in postmenopausal women. Certain formulations were more effective than others, although none was as effective as drug therapy. For details, see the Menopause Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

6/07/2015

Melatonin Increases Bone Density

Research has begun to suggest that melatonin may have a positive effect on the skeleton. The latest study shows that giving post-menopausal women with bone loss daily melatonin causes small, but significant improvements in bone density. Details, including dosage, as well as our tests of melatonin supplements, are found in the Melatonin Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

5/31/2015

Probiotic May Aid Fat Loss

A recent study in overweight men and women showed a small decrease in fat among those taking a probiotic for 12 weeks. Other small studies have shown similar benefits using different probiotics. More details, along with our reviews of probiotics containing organisms similar to those in these studies, are found in the Probiotic Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

9/15/2020

Too Much Vitamin D Bad for Bone?

High doses of vitamin D may lead to loss of bone mineral density in women, according to a recent study. Get the details in the How Much Is Too Much section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.

Clinical Update

1/12/2019

Maintaining Muscle With Fish Oil?

Can taking fish oil prevent muscle loss when a limb is immobilized, such as in a brace? Find out what a recent study showed in the "Strength and Muscle" section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for fish oil.)

Clinical Update

11/26/2017

Signs of B12 Deficiency

B12 deficiency is not uncommon, most often affecting older people. Symptoms include anemia, fatigue, tingling in the arms and legs and loss of balance -- but a recent case report highlights a lesser-known sign of B12 deficiency. Find out more, plus how much B12 you should get in the "B12" section of the B Vitamins Review >> (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin B12 and other B vitamins.)

Clinical Update

10/22/2019

Should Women Take Calcium?

Do women reduce bone loss and the risk of fractures if they take a calcium supplement? See what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Calcium Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for calcium supplements.

Clinical Update

4/14/2020

A Food to Slow Cognitive Decline?

Adherence to a Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment in a major new study, but only one food within that diet -- fish -- was also linked to slower loss of cognitive function. Find out how many servings of fish had the greatest impact in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see if fish oil supplements help and see our Top Picks for fish oil.

Also see our Top Picks for canned tuna and salmon.

Clinical Update

1/25/2020

Best Way to Cook With Olive Oil

Cooking can reduce levels of heart-healthy polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), but a new study showed how to minimize this loss. Get the details in the ConsumerTips section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review. Also see our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.

Clinical Update

11/25/2024

ZeroWater's Loss of Filtration

If you use a ZeroWater pitcher to filter fluoride from your water, be aware that it can lose this ability fairly quickly. For details, see the ConsumerTips section of our Water Filter Pitchers Review, which includes our Top Picks among water filter pitchers.

Clinical Update

9/18/2024

Creatine & Prostate Cancer Treatment

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a common treatment for prostate cancer, but it can lead to muscle loss. Did taking creatine along with regular exercise increase muscle mass or strength among men undergoing ADT? See what a recent study found in the Creatine section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among creatine and BCAA supplements.

Clinical Update

10/28/2024

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is a type of patchy hair loss caused by autoimmune disease. Find out in our article about supplements for hair if any of the following supplements or topicals are recommended for this condition:

Clinical Update

11/11/2024

Oils and Lotions for Hair?

Does applying oils or lotions help prevent loss of hair? We’ve added information about this to our in-depth article about supplements for hair.

Clinical Update

2/25/2022

HMB for Muscle Loss in Older People?

Can HMB supplementation improve muscle mass and strength in older people? Find out what research suggests, including who is most likely to benefit, in the HMB section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

3/11/2022

How Vitamin A Deficiency Can Affect the Eyes

Vitamin A deficiency was linked to eye floaters and loss of peripheral vision in a recently reported case. Get the details, and learn about other symptoms of vitamin A deficiency, in the What It Does section of our Vitamin A Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among vitamin A supplements.

See our answer to the question: Do any supplements help prevent or reduce eye floaters?

Clinical Update

1/27/2023

Fish Oil & Hair

A diet extremely high in fish oil caused hair loss in a recent study in mice. Should this be a concern for people? Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for fish oil.

Also see: Do hair supplements, such as Viviscal, Hair La Vie, and Nutrafol, or topical essential oils work?

Clinical Update

12/20/2022

Coffee's Effect on Vitamins & Minerals

Can coffee reduce the absorption, or increase the loss, of certain vitamins and minerals? Yes, it can. Find out which nutrients are affected, and what steps can be taken to reduce these effects of coffee in our updated Answer about coffee and nutrient absorption/depletion.

Clinical Update

10/07/2022

Biotin for Skin Health?

Biotin has been promoted for reducing wrinkles, but does clinical research support this? Find out in the Biotin (B-7) section of our B Vitamin Supplements Review, which also discusses the evidence for biotin for treating brittle nails and hair loss.

Also, see our CL Answer about supplements for reducing wrinkles and tightening the skin.

Clinical Update

6/06/2023

Blueberries for Bones

The right amount of blueberries may help slow bone loss in postmenopausal women according to a new study. Get the details in our article about supplements and diets for osteoporosis.

Clinical Update

4/14/2023

When to Get Protein

For older people, a new study suggests that the timing of protein intake during the day may be important, although more research is needed. Get the details in the When to take section of our Protein Powders and Shakes Review. Also find out when to take protein around exercise for greater metabolic improvement and fat loss.

See our Top Pick among protein powders.

Clinical Update

4/19/2024

Chitosan for Hair?

Can applying chitosan to hair help it grow? Find out what research suggests in our article about supplements for hair.

Also, find out which antidepressants are most and least likely to be associated with loss of hair.

Clinical Update

11/14/2023

Supplement for Hair?

Does supplementing with Ceramosides, a product that contains ceramides and other sphingolipids, slow loss of hair among women? Find out what a recent study showed in our article about supplements for hair.

Clinical Update

10/10/2023

PEA for Glaucoma?

Does PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) reduce intraocular pressure and slow loss of vision due to glaucoma? Find out in our article about PEA.

Clinical Update

3/01/2024

Loss of Minerals with Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis water filtration depletes water of minerals. Is it necessary to add minerals back? Find out in our article about reducing exposure to PFAS, which includes our Top Pick countertop reverse osmosis filter.

Also see our Water Pitcher Filters Review.

Recalls & Warnings

March 10, 2018

Kratom Supplements Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On March 10, 2018, PDX Aromatics of Portland, Oregon DBA Kraken Kratom, Phytoextractum, and Soul Speciosa issued a recall of certain kratom-containing powder products because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

November 01, 2017

FDA Warns Sellers of Bodybuilding Supplements Containing Steroid-Like Substances

On October 23, 2017, the FDA issued warning letters to three supplement distributors because several of their bodybuilding products contain selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs).

Recalls & Warnings

October 01, 2016

Homeopathic Teething Tablets and Gels May Pose Danger, FDA Warns

On September 30, 2016, the FDA warned consumers that homeopathic teething tablets and gels may be dangerous for infants and children. The agency has received adverse events reports, including seizures, associated with the use of these products.

Recalls & Warnings

August 05, 2016

Seller of Fertilix Warned By FDA

On July 22, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to CellOxess LLC, following a review of the company's websites, social media pages and marketing literature which found statements made about Fertilix Preconceptual, Fertilix Low Dose and Fertilix Max to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

July 23, 2016

Seller of GlucoCor Warned for Drug Claims

On June 30, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to MC-COR, LLC, following a review of the company's website and Facebook page which found statements made about its GlucoCor capsules to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

September 08, 2012

Medifast Settles False Advertising Suit

On September 7, 2012, Jason Pharmaceuticals Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Medifast, agreed to pay a $3.7 million civil penalty and meet new compliance requirements as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission.

Recalls & Warnings

April 23, 2009

Recall of "Slimming" Supplements Spiked with Drug

On April 20, 2009 the U.S. FDA reported a nationwide recall of dietary supplements distributed by Universal ABC Beauty Supply International.

Recalls & Warnings

October 08, 2010

"Red Flags" for Spotting Tainted Supplements

In recent years, the FDA has identified hundereds of products marketed as dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals. In reaction to this, the FDA recently created a flyer to help retailers spot questionable products. ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

September 13, 2010

Recall of Herbal Slimming Supplement Spiked with Drug

The U.S. FDA posted a notice dated August 18, 2010 indicating that Slim-30 Herbal Supplement (Lot 6032101) has been recalled by its distributor, J & H Besta Corp.

Recalls & Warnings

October 25, 2013

Supplement Company Warned For Numerous Manufacturing Violations

On August 2, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to DNE Nutraceuticals, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the company's products to be adulterated because they were packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing Practices for dietary supplements.

Recalls & Warnings

March 19, 2014

Maker of Herbal Capsules and Extracts Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On September 19, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Herbalist and Alchemist, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

December 19, 2013

Maker of Joint Health Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On December 4, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to PurQuality, LLC.

Recalls & Warnings

October 06, 2006

FDA Warns Mangosteen Juice Maker of Drug Promotions

On September 20, 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sent a Warning Letter to the makers of Xango, a mangosteen juice product. The letter advised that distributors of the product were using brochures making health claims restricted to the promotion of drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

February 22, 2018

Kratom Supplements Recalled and Destroyed

On February 21, 2018, the FDA announced the voluntary destruction and recall of Botany Bay, Enhance Your Life and Divinity kratom supplements. All of the products were manufactured and distributed nationwide by Divinity Products Distribution, located in Grain Valley, Missouri.

Recalls & Warnings

February 20, 2018

Salmonella Outbreak Linked to Kratom Powders, Pills and Teas

On February 20, 2018, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) warned consumers not to use kratom in any form because it could be contaminated with Salmonella. The CDC is currently investigating an outbreak of illness caused by Salmonella infection associated with the use of kratom.

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2018

FDA Issues Mandatory Recall of Salmonella-Contaminated Kratom Products

On April 2, 2018, the FDA issued a mandatory recall of all food products containing powdered kratom manufactured, processed, packed, or held by Triangle Pharmanaturals LLC because several of company's products were found to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

April 02, 2018

NutriZone Kratom Supplements Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On March 10, 2018, NutriZone, LLC issued a recall of certain kratom-containing powder products because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

August 16, 2018

Kratom Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On August 14, 2018, Zakah Life, LLC issued a recall of Super Green Maeng Da Premium Kratom powder, Powerful Red Vein Bali Premium Kratom powder, Super Green Maeng Da Premium Kratom capsules, and Powerful Red Vein Bali Premium Kratom capsules because laboratory testing revealed the presence of ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 12, 2018

FDA Urges Consumers to Avoid Kratom

On September 11, 2018, FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D., urged consumers not to use products containing the kratom, an herb that is often promoted for pain relief and for relieving symptoms of opioid withdrawal.

News Release

January 08, 2002

ConsumerLab.com finds most B vitamin supplements contain what they claim, but often exceed safe levels — Consumers cautioned to be aware of side effects with high dose products

WHITE PLAINS, NY — January 8, 2002 — ConsumerLab.com announced today that all but one of the twenty-one products analyzed in its B Vitamin Product Review contained the claimed amounts of B vitamins.

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2003

FTC Charges Marketers of Seasilver with False and Deceptive Claims

On June 19, 2003, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced coordinated actions against two companies - both charged with promoting the dietary supplement "Seasilver" with unsubstantiated medical claims. The agencies' actions against Seasilver USA, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 26, 2017

"Allergy" Supplement Containing Ephedra Recalled

On February 7, 2017, MusclMasster, LLC (DBA The Green Herb) of Wheat Ridge, CO issued a recall of all bottles of Al-Er-G Capsules , a product promoted to help allergies, because they contain ephedra.

Recalls & Warnings

February 09, 2017

Herbal Supplement Found to Contain Ephedra Alkaloids Recalled

On February 7, 2017, Kingsway Trading Inc. issued a recall of Xanthium & Siler Combo (Bi Yan Pian) Dietary Supplement because it contains ephedra alkaloids.

Recalls & Warnings

October 09, 2013

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Use OxyElite Pro As It Investigates Link With Hepatitis

On October 8, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use USPLabs’ weight loss supplement OxyElite Pro because it has been linked with 24 cases of acute non-viral hepatitis in Hawaii.

Recalls & Warnings

January 24, 2013

Excessive Lead and Mercury Found In Chinese Herbal Supplements

On January 23, 2013, Health Canada warned consumers that certain batches of the Chinese dietary supplements [W.S.

Recalls & Warnings

May 03, 2010

FDA Warns Consumers to Avoid Breath Supplement Contaminated with Lead

On May 3, 2010 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers not to purchase nor consume Vita Breath, a dietary supplement manufactured by American Herbal Lab Inc. of Rosemead, Calif.

Recalls & Warnings

November 28, 2006

FTC Targets Seller of Pills Promoted for Height, Weight, and Bone Improvement

On November 28, 2006, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that a Florida business and its owner, who marketed purported height-enhancing pills for kids and young adults, will pay $375,000 to settle charges that their advertising claims were deceptive.

Recalls & Warnings

June 14, 2007

Marketers of Bogus Growth Hormone Sprays Settle with FTC

On May 29, 2007 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)announced that two operations that marketed oral sprays that were supposed to help users lose weight, reverse the aging process, and prevent or treat diseases have settled FTC charges that their claims were bogus.

Recalls & Warnings

October 18, 2005

FTC Stops False Claims about HGH Oral Spray

On October 18, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that, at its request, a federal court issued a temporary restraining order against marketers of oral sprays that supposedly contain human growth hormone (HGH) to stop them from making alleged false and deceptive claims and from ...

Recalls & Warnings

June 23, 2018

Gaia Kratom Recalled Due to Salmonella Risk

On June 21, 2018, Gaia Ethnobotanical, LLC issued a recall of 27 kratom products because they have the potential to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

November 14, 2017

36 Deaths Associated With the Use of Kratom Products

On November 14, 2017, FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, M.D. issued a statement on the dangers of using products containing kratom, an herb often promoted for pain relief, energy and for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms.

Recalls & Warnings

October 04, 2017

Police Officer Dies From Kratom Overdose, Herb Currently Legal in Most States

A police officer who worked in narcotics in Tupper Lake, New York, died this summer of an overdose of the herb kratom, according to a report from ABC News.

Recalls & Warnings

July 29, 2017

Increase in Calls to Poison Control Centers About Supplements

The number of calls to poison control centers in the U.S. about dietary supplement exposures increased by almost 50% between 2005 and 2012, according to a study published this week in the Journal of Medical Toxicology.

Recalls & Warnings

April 15, 2017

Hyland's Baby Teething Tablets and Nighttime Teething Tablets Recalled

On April 13, 2017, Standard Homeopathic Company its Hyland's Baby Teething Tablets and Hyland's Baby Nighttime Teething Tablets because FDA testing has found the tablets contain inconsistent amounts of belladonna alkaloids that may differ from the calculated amount on the ...

Recalls & Warnings

October 18, 2017

Total Body Nutrition Warned for Banned Stimulant in Supplements

On September 28, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Total Body Nutrition following a facility inspection which found some of the company's products to be adulterated because they were prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current Good Manufacturing Practices for dietary ...

Recalls & Warnings

November 25, 2016

Homeopathic Teething Tablets and Ear Relief Products Containing Belladonna Recalled

On November 24, 2016, Raritan Pharmaceuticals, a contract manufacturer for Homeolab USA, issued a recall of three homeopathic products for infants and/or children which contain belladonna extract. The products may contain belladonna alkaloids, compounds which can have harmful effects in people.

Recalls & Warnings

January 28, 2017

FDA Testing Confirms Elevated Levels of Belladonna in Some Homeopathic Teething Products

On January 27, 2017, the FDA announced that its laboratory analysis found "inconsistent amounts of belladonna, a toxic substance, in certain homeopathic teething tablets, sometimes far exceeding the amount claimed on the label.

Recalls & Warnings

August 02, 2016

Seller of Whey Protein Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On July 22, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to New Horizon Nutraceuticals, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, One World Whey Protein Power Food to be adulterated because it was prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate Current ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 31, 2016

Seller of Joint Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On July 15, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Vitalife Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 23, 2016

Seller of Aloe Liquid and Capsules Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On July 15, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Aloe Farms, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

September 14, 2016

Seller of Aloe, Prostate and Joint Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On April 8, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Salud Natural Entrepreneurs, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

September 07, 2016

Seller of Herbal Formulas for Cholesterol, Prostate & More Warned For Drug Claims

On July 29, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Healing-Scents following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about its products, Heart Herbs, Cholesterol Regulation Herbs, Diabetes Regulation Herbs, Prostate Healer Herbs, High Blood Pressure Herbs, ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 06, 2016

Seller on Noni Juice Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On August 26, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Healing Noni Co. L.L.C.

Recalls & Warnings

October 25, 2016

FDA Warns Maker of Sublingual Melatonin and Progesterone Cream

On October 12, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Threshold Enterprises, Ltd.

Recalls & Warnings

October 18, 2016

Seller of Sublingual Vitamins Warned for Drug Claims

On August 31, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bio-Stasis International, Inc., following a review of the company's website which found statements made about its sublingual tablets, ViraPress, Vitamin D-3 and Vitamin B-12. to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

December 17, 2010

FDA Steps Up Efforts to Battle Tainted Supplements

On Dec. 15, 2010, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took new steps aimed at keeping consumers safe from harmful products that are marketed as dietary supplements and that contain undeclared or deceptively labeled ingredients.

Recalls & Warnings

February 07, 2011

Maker of Hoodia and Green Tea Products to Pay $2.65 Million Settlement for Unfair Business Practices

On February 1, 2011, supplement maker Irwin Naturals agreed to pay civil penalties, consumer restitution, and and investigative costs to settle a suit in California alleging that Irwin Naturals marketed Hoodia products that did not contain the hoodia gordonii herb despite the product labeling.

Recalls & Warnings

August 07, 2011

Performance Enhancing Ingredient, DMAA, Not Really from Geraniums, Putting Its Use in Supplements in Doubt

On July 29, 2011, the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) announced a new requirement that products containing the sports performance enhancing compound DMAA (also known as 1,3-dimethlypentlyamine, 1,3 dimethylamylamine, methylhexanamine, or MHA), not be labeled as geranium oil or any part ...

Recalls & Warnings

July 19, 2011

FDA Warns of Unsafe Drug in Slimming Supplements

On July 8, 2011, the U.S. FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use Slim Forte Slimming Capsule and Slim Forte Double Power Slimming Capsules. FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that these products contain sibutramine. Sibutramine is a controlled substance that was removed from the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

June 18, 2011

FTC Attacks Massive Online Fraud Regarding "Free Trials" of Supplements and Health Products

On May 17, 2011, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it is suing the operators of an online operation that collected more than $450 million from consumers in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. According to the FTC's complaint:

Recalls & Warnings

January 30, 2013

Maker of Cold and Flu Supplement Warned For Making Drug Claims

On January 24, 2013, the FDA and FTC jointly issued a warning letter to Flu and Cold Defense LLC, after a review of the company's website and marketing materials found statements made about the cold and flu dietary supplement GermBullet to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

February 12, 2013

Judge Orders Drug and Supplement Company to Cease Manufacturing and Distribution

On February 8, 2012, the FDA announced Titan Medical Enterprises Inc. has been ordered to stop manufacturing and distributing drugs and dietary supplements until the company's manufacturing operations comply with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The order was signed on December 11, 2012, U.

Recalls & Warnings

April 16, 2012

Protein Supplement Maker Fails FDA Audit -- Many Products Affected

The FDA sent a Warning Letter (dated April 2, 2012) to Theta Brothers Sports Nutrition, Inc. regarding numerous violations of good manufacturing practices at its Lakewood, New Jersey facility.

Recalls & Warnings

November 06, 2012

Recall of "Bee Pollen" Supplement Found to Contain Drug

On October 24, 2012, Zi Xiu Tang Success, LLC issued a voluntary recall of Classic Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen Capsules and Ultimate Formula Capsules because the supplements contain the undeclared drug sibutramine.

Recalls & Warnings

September 15, 2013

Creatine Powder Containing DMAA Recalled

On September 12, 2013, Ge Pharma, LLC issued a recall of grape and fruit punch flavors of Creafuse Powder because they contain 1,3 dimethylamylamine (DMAA).

Recalls & Warnings

October 30, 2013

Three Sexual Enhancement Supplements Found to Contain Prescription Drugs

On September 24, 2013, the FDA advised consumers not to purchase or use sexual enhancement supplements Xzen 1200, Xzen Gold and Xzen Xpress because they have been found to contain undeclared prescription drugs.

Recalls & Warnings

July 28, 2013

B Vitamin Supplement Found To Contain Anabolic Steroids

On July 26, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Healthy Life Chemistry by Purity First B-50, a vitamin B dietary supplement which was found to contain anabolic steroids, methasterone and dimethazine.

Recalls & Warnings

May 17, 2013

Hoodia, Sexual Enhancement Supplements and More Found To Be Adulterated, Misbranded

On March 01, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Desert Rose Manufacturing, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

December 24, 2013

Muscle Growth Supplement Linked with Liver Failure

On December 23, 2013, the FDA advised consumers to immediately stop using muscle growth supplement Mass Destruction (by Blunt Force Nutrition) because it is labeled as containing at least one synthetic anabolic steroid and has been linked to at least one reported case of liver failure.

Recalls & Warnings

February 13, 2014

Maker of Cholesterol and Workout Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims and Unapproved Ingredient

On January 31, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Exclusive Supplements Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 24, 2016

Seller of Joint Health, Omega-3 Supplements & More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On May 13, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Rocky Fork Formulas, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 15, 2016

Seller of Vision Supplements Warned for Drug Claims

On April 28, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Macular Health, LLC.

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2016

Maker of Growth Hormone, Testosterone Booster Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Misbranding

On January 8, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nutraloid Labs Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2016

Seller of Aloe, Moringa Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 13, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Alkebulan International Services, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products,Aloe Ferox and Moringa Oleifera Capsule to be adulterated because they prepared, packed, or held under conditions that ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2016

Seller of Liver, Lung Support Supplements Warned for Drug Claims

On January 4, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Tibetan Herbal Balance, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

December 29, 2015

Maker of Vitamin K, Vitamin A & More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On December 10 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Dherbs Health Emporium, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

January 26, 2016

Seller of CoQ10, SAM-e, Vitamin D, and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 15, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nutri-Dyn Midwest, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Cardioauxin BP, Zinc Lozenge, Oliver, Pau D'Arco, Petadolex, Chondro Jointaide, Dynagesic, SAMe-200, Gugulipid.

Recalls & Warnings

February 06, 2016

Seller of Turmeric, Milk Thistle and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 15, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Terra Firma Botanicals, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 14, 2015

No Vinpocetine in Some Vinpocetine Supplements; Picamilon Labels Not Accurate

A recently published study of 23 supplements listing vinpocetine as an ingredient found six did not contain any vinpocetine. Among those that did contain vinpocetine, most did not list amounts on the label, but amounts found in suggested daily servings varied by almost 100-fold, from 0.

Recalls & Warnings

September 05, 2015

Maker of Multivitamin and Fish Oil Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On July 22, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Westar Nutritional Corp. dba Viva Life Science, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 02, 2015

Maker of Arthritis Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On June 17, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Desert Stream, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 06, 2015

Children and Adult Gummy Vitamins Recalled in Canada Due to Excessive Vitamin D

On August 6, 2015, Health Canada (the Canadian equivalent of the U.S. FDA) announced Church & Dwight Canada Corp. is recalling the following supplements because they contain more vitamin D than claimed on the label (identified in Canada by their assigned natural product number (NPN):

Recalls & Warnings

June 17, 2015

Maker of Joint Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On May 29, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Total Health Advanced Nutrition, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

September 26, 2015

Seller of Muscle Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On August 14, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Chaotic Labz, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 21, 2015

Imported Supplements Can Be Dangerous, FDA Warns

On October 15, 2015, the FDA warned consumers that some supplements sold at nontraditional places, such as ethnic or international stores, flea markets, swap meets, as well as online, are often imported from other countries, and some can potentially be harmful.

Recalls & Warnings

November 18, 2015

Seller of "Hangover" Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations & Drug Claims

On September 17, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Life Support Development Ltd, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, including Life Support Hangover Relief to be adulterated because they prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate ...

Recalls & Warnings

November 11, 2014

Seller of Sexual, Muscle Enhancement Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On August 26, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to GE Pharma LLC following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Fire Burn, Fire Storm, Creatine, Amino Fire, Nitric Fire, Jet Fire, Oxy Fire, HGH, Cissus, Hydro shield, Performa-Test, Raspberry Ketones, Fire Drol, ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 27, 2015

Seller of Aloe, Sexual Enhancement Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 8, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Aloe Man, Inc., following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including The Aloe Man's Super Bright, Dr. Johnson's Maximum Desire, Dr. Johnson's Body Healer, and Dr.

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2015

CVS Sued for Eye Health Supplement Claims

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against CVS for promoting the company's Advanced Eye Health supplement as comparable to the formula used in the large National Institutes of Health (NIH) eye disease study known as AREDS2, despite the fact that it does not contain the same ingredients.

Recalls & Warnings

January 31, 2015

Maker of Soy and Zinc Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On December 18, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to PreMark Health Science, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 10, 2015

Seller of Vision Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On February 26, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Biosyntrx, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including BioTears Oral Gel Caps, ZoOmega-3 Concentrated Pharmaceutical-Grade Fish Oil, EpiCor A Nutrient-dense High Metabolite Immunogen, Sight C+ Mineral ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 10, 2015

Seller of "Natural" Cough Syrup Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 21, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Fragrance Manufacturing Incorporated, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup and Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup for Kids, to be adulterated because they ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 23, 2015

Seller of Magnesium, Calcium, Silver and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On May 8, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pick and Pay, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

June 03, 2015

Maker of B-12 Energy Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On May 15, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to LiquidCapsule Manufacturing, LLC.

Recalls & Warnings

May 30, 2015

Seller of Supplements for Herpes, Prostate Cancer & More Warned for Drug Claims

On May 7, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Strictly Health Corporation, following a review of the company's websites which found statements made about FENVIR, Prosta Pep and Tonalin brand CLA to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

May 02, 2015

Maker of Garcinia, Joint Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On March 25, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to JW Nutritional LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including  Vanish V2 Domestic, Mr.

Recalls & Warnings

February 24, 2015

Seller of Heart, Brain and Diabetes Supplements Warned for Drug Claims

On February 6, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to LCW, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

February 28, 2015

Drugs Found in Male Enhancement Supplements

On December 11, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Biogenix USA, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's sexual enhancement products, HAM, CE6 and SARMZ to contain undeclared drugs, as well as drugs which were listed on the label but are not permitted ...

Recalls & Warnings

December 02, 2005

Steroids Detected In Supplement

On November 30, 2005, The Washington Post reported that a dietary supplement marketed to fitness and health enthusiasts on the Internet and in body-building shops contains anabolic steroids, according to a prominent researcher.

Recalls & Warnings

July 24, 2006

Marketers of Seasilver Ordered to Pay Almost $120 Million

On July 24, 2006, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the marketers of Seasilver, an alleged phony cure-all, have been ordered to pay almost $120 million for failing to comply with an earlier order requiring them to pay $3 million in consumer redress.

Recalls & Warnings

April 22, 2008

Court Upholds Order for Seasilver Marketers to Pay $120 Million

On April 16, 2008, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

May 01, 2009

FDA Warns Consumers to Stop Using Hydroxycut -- Product Being Tested by ConsumerLab.com

On May 1, 2009, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned consumers to immediately stop using Hydroxycut products by Iovate Health Sciences Inc., of Oakville, Ontario and distributed by Iovate Health Sciences USA Inc. of Blasdell, N.Y.

Recalls & Warnings

March 29, 2013

Prescription Drugs Found In Prostate and Sexual Enhancement Supplements

October 24, 2012 the FDA issued a warning letter to USA Far Ocean Group Inc./ Health & Beauty Group Inc. because a number of the company's dietary supplements were found to contain pharmaceutical drugs, or were promoted with statements that constitute drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2015

Maker of Red Yeast Rice, St. John's Wort, Valerian and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On December 2, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nature's Health, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, including Ginkgo & Rhodiola, Blood Sugar Balance IV, Cinnamon Extract, Choles-Balance Red Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Milk Thistle Seed Extract, ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 15, 2006

New Zealand Warns of Liver Toxicity from Black Cohosh

On February 9, 2006, New Zealand's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced new labelling and consumer information for medicines containing Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa).

Recalls & Warnings

January 03, 2004

FDA to Prohibit Sales of Dietary Supplements Containing Ephedra

On December 30, 2003, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a consumer alert of its forthcoming determination that dietary supplements containing ephedra present an unreasonable risk of illness or injury, and should not be consumed.

Recalls & Warnings

November 04, 2016

Liver Injuries Linked With Dietary Supplement Use on the Rise

The number of liver injuries associated with dietary supplement use has increased substantially in recent years, according to a recently published study in the journal Hepatology.

Recalls & Warnings

November 07, 2015

Seller of "NaturalDoctor" Vitamin C, Echinacea and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations

On October 16, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter Sound Healing Arts, PC, dba Grounds for Tea, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including  NaturalDoctor Vitamins C & K3, NaturalDoctor Goldenseal & Echinacea Plus, NaturalDoctor Centella ...

Recalls & Warnings

June 11, 2015

FDA Warns Maker of Fruit Energy Drinks for Drug Claims

On May 19, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to CK Management, Inc. following a facility inspection which found statements made on product labels and websites about Whole5, Fruit of the Spirit and ViaViente "whole food" fruit puree energy drinks to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

June 26, 2015

Seller of CoQ10, Anxiety Supplements and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On June 6, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Country Doctor Herbals, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including  Herbal Flu Be-Gone, Herbal Multi-Bac, Herbal Nervine, Herbal Pain-A-Way, Herbal Pancreas, Herbal Parasite Cleanse, Herbal Perfect ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 24, 2015

Seller of Antioxidant Water, Energy Drops Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On February 18, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Better Health Lab, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 10, 2015

Maker of Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc, B Vitamins and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On January 8, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Complete H2O Minerals, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Sulfur Concentrate, Copper, Extra Strength Copper, Extra Strength Magnesium, Extra Strength Zinc, Platinum, Gold, Indium, Molybdenum, ...

Recalls & Warnings

May 30, 2015

Seller of Omega-3, Probiotics & SuperFoods Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On May 4, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Dr. Dennis Black, LLC.

Recalls & Warnings

February 21, 2013

FDA and FTC Warn: Supplements Cannot Prevent, Treat Or Cure Cold And Flu

On February 11, 2013, the FDA and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jointly issued warning letters to three dietary supplement companies regarding their potential illegal marketing of products to prevent, treat or cure flu virus.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2012

FDA Seizes Many Supplements from New York Company Due To Drug Claims

On October 23, 2012, U.S. Marshalls, acting on behalf of the FDA, seized dietary supplements and unapproved drugs from Confidence, Inc., a supplement manufacturer in Port Washington, N.Y. The products included dietary supplements Dr.

Recalls & Warnings

August 31, 2009

Court Orders Marketers of Supreme Greens and Coral Calcium to Pay Nearly $70 Million for Consumer Refunds

On August 27, 2009, a federal district court ordered the marketers of two dietary supplements – "Supreme Greens" and "Coral Calcium" – who claimed the products would cure ailments ranging from cancer and Parkinson’s disease to heart disease and autoimmune diseases to pay nearly $70 million for ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 10, 2012

Acai Berry Pill Marketers to Pay $1.5 Million to Settle FTC Charges

On January 9, 2012, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that an operation that marketed acai berry supplements, "colon cleansers," and other products using allegedly fraudulent free trial offers and phony endorsements from Oprah Winfrey and Rachael Ray will pay $1.

Recalls & Warnings

August 02, 2013

Vitamin B, Vitamin C and Multimineral Supplements Recalled Due To Anabolic Steroid Risk

On July 31, 2013, Purity First Health Products, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 11, 2003

Rexall Agrees to Pay up to $12 million to Users of Misleading Cellulite Supplement

On March 11, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that Rexall Sundown, Inc. (Rexall) will pay up to $12 million to resolve FTC charges regarding its marketing of the dietary supplement, "Cellasene," a purported cellulite treatment product.

Recalls & Warnings

September 25, 2007

Recall of Contaminated Baby Supplement

On September 21, 2007 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers not to consume Baby's Bliss Gripe Water, apple flavor, with a code of 26952V and expiration date of October 2008 (shown as '10/08' on the label). The product is distributed by MOM Enterprises, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 30, 2004

FTC Sues Florida Man for Illegal Spam and False "Human Growth Hormone" Product Claims

On July 29, 2004, The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that a federal court in Chicago has issued a court order halting illegal spamming and deceptive product claims, and has also frozen the assets of Creaghan A. Harry, a resident of Boca Raton, Florida.

Recalls & Warnings

May 28, 2003

FTC Challenges Claims of Five Supplements to Treat or Cure Serious Diseases

On May 27, 2003 the Federal Trade Commission announced that it had filed a complaint in federal district court against A.

Recalls & Warnings

June 19, 2023

A&Z Pharmaceutical Warned for Promoting Calcium & Vitamin D for Hair Loss, Osteoporosis & Cancer

On June 1, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to A&Z Pharmaceutical, Inc. following inspection of the company’s website and social media, which found statements about the company’s Chewable Calcium 600MG with Vitamin D for Kids in Orange Flavor products to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

September 24, 2024

Supplement for Eczema Recalled

On September 18, 2024, 123Herbals LLC issued a recall for all lots of Vail-Bon Jie Yang Wan capsules, which are promoted to treat eczema and other skin conditions, because they contain undeclared dexamethasone and chlorpheniramine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 18, 2005

Supplement Maker to Pay over $3.5 Million to Settle Deceptive Advertising Charges for Immune Dietary Supplement

On January 18, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the Orange County (California) District Attorney, and the California State Attorney General announced that they had reached settlements with Body Wise International, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

August 12, 2024

FDA Warns "Apricot Power" Apricot Seeds Contain Toxic Compound

On May 24, 2024, the FDA warned consumers not to consume three Apricot Power bitter apricot seed products because they were found to contain the toxic compound amygdalin.

Recalls & Warnings

February 06, 2023

Recalled Eye Drops Linked to Vision Loss and One Death

On February 2, 2023, Global Pharma Healthcare issued a nationwide recall of its Artificial Tears Lubricant Eye Drops due to potential contamination with bacteria that can cause serious infection, blindness, and death.

Recalls & Warnings

July 21, 2003

FTC Stops False Advertising of Heavily Promoted Supplements for Breast Enhancment, Male Virility, and Snoring

On June 10, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that infomercial marketers Wellquest International, Inc. and Tony Hoffman Productions, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 30, 2021

Real Water Alkaline Water Recalled for Possible Link to Liver Illness

On March 24, 2021, Real Water, Inc. recalled all sizes of Real Water bottled alkaline water because it may be linked to multiple cases of non-viral hepatitis that occurred in Las Vegas, NV in November of 2020.

Recalls & Warnings

January 12, 2021

FDA Warns Seller of Joint and Hair Loss Products

On December 22, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Speedwinds Nutrition, Inc. following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Synotrex and Sephren to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

March 18, 2021

Don't Drink Real Water Alkaline Water, FDA Warns After Reports of Liver Illness

On March 16, 2021, the FDA warned consumers not to drink or use Real Water bottled alkaline water while it investigates reports of hepatitis associated with the product.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2019

Mislabeled Green Tea Supplement Recalled

On July 11, 2019, DaVinci Laboratories of Vermont issued a recall of 256 bottles of the weight management supplement Dim Plex because they may undeclared fish allergens. 

Recalls & Warnings

June 16, 2009

FDA Warns of Loss of Sense of Smell with Zicam Nasal Gel/Nasal Swab

On June 16, 2009, the U.S. FDA warned consumers and healthcare professionals to discontinue use of three Zicam Nasal Gel/Nasal Swab products sold over-the-counter as cold remedies because they are associated with the loss of sense of smell that may be long-lasting or permanent.

Recalls & Warnings

September 18, 2015

High Levels of Mercury and Lead Found in Ayurvedic Herbal Supplements

On September 17, 2015, the FDA announced that Shree Baidyanath Ayurved Bhawan Ayurvedic dietary supplements were found to contain high levels of lead and/or mercury, which can cause serious health problems.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2004

Company Stopped by FTC from Claiming to Prevent or Reverse Memory Loss without Evidence

On July 13, 2004, the Federal Trade Commission(FTC) announced that a dietary supplement manufacturer has settled FTC charges that it violated federal law by making unsubstantiated claims that its product, “Senior Moment,” could prevent memory loss and restore memory function in adults.

Recalls & Warnings

October 27, 2004

Some Supplements Can Damage Eyes At High Doses and with Topical Use

As reported by Reuters Health on October 21, 2004, an article in the current issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology suggests that some herbal remedies and nutritional supplements can damage the eyes.

Recalls & Warnings

March 28, 2008

FDA Warns of Adverse Reactions with Two Liquid Supplements -- Selenium Toxicity Possible

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is advising consumers not to purchase or consume Total Body Formula in the flavors of Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar, or Total Body Mega Formula in the Orange/Tangerine flavor.