Potentially harmful stimulant sibutramine found in Beautiful Health Inc's Slimming Beauty Bitter Orange Slimming Capsules.

[Posted 10/08/2010] Potentially harmful stimulant found in Slimming Beauty capsules
AUDIENCE: Consumers
ISSUE: FDA notified consumers that Slimming Beauty Bitter Orange Slimming Capsules contain the active pharmaceutical ingredient sibutramine, a prescription-only drug which is a stimulant. Sibutramine is not listed on the product label and could harm consumers, especially those with cardiovascular conditions, because it can lead to elevated blood pressure, stroke, and heart attack. Consumers who are otherwise healthy and who take the amount of sibutramine found in Slimming Beauty capsules can experience anxiety, nausea, heart palpitations, a racing heart, insomnia, and elevated blood pressure. Sibutramine also may interact with other medications and can cause serious side effects.
BACKGROUND: Slimming Beauty is being sold over the Internet by Beautiful Health Inc., formerly LL Health and Beauty. Slimming Beauty sample packets also have been distributed by individuals at community events.
RECOMMENDATION: Consumers should discontinue use immediately. The FDA News Release provides product photos.
Healthcare professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of this product to the FDA's MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

• Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm
• Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178