The
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to buy or
consume the following Total Body liquid dietary supplement products
because of reports received of severe adverse reactions:
-
Total Body Formula in the flavors of Tropical Orange and Peach Nectar (sold in eight- and 32-ounce plastic bottles)
-
Total Body Mega Formula in the Orange/Tangerine flavor (sold in 32-ounce plastic bottles)
Atlanta-based
Total Body Essential Nutrition has recalled these products, which have
been distributed in the following states: Alabama, California, Florida,
Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, North
Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia.
Adverse Reactions
The recalled products may cause the following severe adverse reactions:
-
significant hair loss
-
muscle cramps
-
diarrhea
-
joint pain
-
fatigue
The
Florida Department of Health has informed FDA of 23 people who
experienced serious reactions from the products seven to 10 days after
ingestion. FDA is also investigating a report that some people in
Tennessee who used the products have experienced similar reactions.
FDA
is analyzing samples to identify the cause of the reactions, including
the possibility that the products contain excessive amounts of
selenium, which is known to cause symptoms such as those that have been
reported to the agency. Selenium, a trace mineral, is needed only in
small amounts for good health.
Steps for Consumers
-
Avoid using the products immediately and discard them in a trash receptacle outside of the home.
-
Consult your health care professional if you have been taking the products and have experienced adverse reactions.
-
Report adverse events to FDA's MedWatch program at 800-FDA-1088 or online at www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm.
-
Call FDA's toll-free Food Safety Hotline at 1-888-SAFEFOOD if you would like more information.
For More Information
FDA Press Release
http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01812.html
Date Posted: April 1, 2008
