Used frequently by dieters and fitness buffs, Hydroxycut now faces fierce scrutiny from the US FDA, who has officially added Hydroxycut to its warning list of dangerous, over-the-counter dietary supplements.

Reported Dangers of Hydroxycut

Based upon one death and 23 reports of major health issues stemming from Hydroxycut use, including liver failure, kidney failure, seizures, jaundice, and cardiovascular issues, the FDA issued an official statement warning consumers to avoid taking the supplement, which has been sold at the Vitamin Shoppe and GNC. Other negative side effects that have been reported include nausea, extreme fatigue, physical weakness, itching, stomach pain, and discolored stool.

The manufacturer, Iovate Health Sciences Inc., has agreed to nationally recall 14 different products of its Hydroxycut line, which sold upwards of nine million bottles last year. The scope of the Hydroxycut recall is dramatic, as this one brand alone comprised nearly 90% of all sales in the weight loss supplement industry.

Which Hydroxycut Ingredients are Dangerous?

The FDA is still investigating which elements of the Hydroxycut ingredients list are the culprits. Due to the fact that the “proprietary” Hydroxycut formula has changed several times, it has been difficult to pinpoint which ingredients are linked to the dangerous side effects.

The recalled Hydroxycut products include the pills, shakes, and powders. Whether you have been taking Hydroxycut for weight loss or muscle building purposes, the FDA recommends that consumers immediately stop taking the supplement.

Two products from the Hydroxycut line have not been recalled, including the Hydroxycut Cleanse and Hydroxycut Hoodia, which contain different ingredients than the ones in question.

New Regulatory Changes with the FDA

While dietary supplements are not as rigorously regulated by the FDA as prescription medication, the FDA has been increasing its efforts to identify over-the-counter supplements that may pose health warnings. In addition, new legislation which mandates that manufacturers disclose reports of negative side effects has helped increase the FDA’s regulation of the supplements industry. Since December of 2008, the FDA has published a list of 70 different supplements that contain potentially dangerous or prescription ingredients.