GNC Recalls Hydoxycut in Philippines

Supplements giant General Nutrition Center (GNC), distributor of the popular weight-loss goods Hydroxycut in the Philippines, pulled out the said products after Philippines’ Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD) released BFAD Advisory 2009-2005. Hydroxycut, whose main components are composed of hydroxagen and L-Carnitine, are manufactured by Ontario-based Iovate Health Sciences Inc. was pulled out of the market due to reported cases of liver damage. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also ordered product recall last May of 2009 due to the same issue. FDA warned consumers to stop using 14 Hydroxycut products to avoid the health risks—FDA declared that adverse effects are rare but it does exist.

Hydroxycut’s main components are from herbal extracts–Garcinia Cambogia, caffeine and green tea. The drug enhances metabolism, reduced cravings, burns fat and enhances energy. According to FDA’s report, there are 23 cases of reported liver-related deaths over the period of seven years. Iovate Health Sciences Inc. voluntarily recalled the products when FDA ordered it. A summary of frequently asked questions were detailed in a webpage published by manufacturer.

In Philippines, US FDA issued pull out of Hydroxycut products last May 1, 2009 but the link in BFAD’s website became only active recently—they have published it last May 25, 2009 (GMANews.TV). The following products were called from the shelves:

• Hydroxycut Regular Rapid Release Caplets
• Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Rapid Release Caplets
• Hydroxycut Hardcore Liquid Capsules
• Hydroxycut Max Liquid Capsules
• Hydroxycut Regular Drink Packets
• Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Drink Packets
• Hydroxycut Hardcore Drink Packets (Ignition Stix)
• Hydroxycut Max Drink Packets
• Hydroxycut Liquid Shots
• Hydroxycut Hardcore RTDs (Ready-to-Drink)
• Hydroxycut Max Aqua Shed
• Hydroxycut 24
• Hydroxycut Carb Control
• Hydroxycut Natural

photo courtesy of lawyersforclients.com