Unauthorized weight loss product seized from two retail locations in southwest of Calgary

Dec 23 2014

The issue:

The unauthorized product "Hydro-Lean" was seized from two Calgary stores because the label indicates it contains a combination of ingredients that can cause serious health risks (ephedrine and caffeine). Canadians suffering from heart conditions, high blood pressure and diabetes are particularly at risk.

Hydro-Lean is promoted for body building purposes, including for weight loss and increased energy. It has not been approved for sale in Canada.

Products affected:
Hydro-Lean "Advanced Thermogenic Formula," manufactured by West Pharm.

Who is affected:
Consumers who have bought or used Hydro-Lean, particularly those with heart conditions, high blood pressure and diabetes.

What consumers should do

• Consult with your doctor if you have used this product and have health concerns.
• Read the label of the products you buy to verify that they have been assessed by Health Canada for safety, effectiveness and quality. Health products that have been authorized for sale by Health Canada will have an eight-digit Drug Identification Number (DIN), a Homeopathic Medicine Number (DIN-HM) or a Natural Product Number (NPN) on the label.
• Report any adverse events to Health Canada.

What Health Canada is doing:

Health Canada has seized the product from two Samson's Supplements retail locations in the southwest of Calgary, Alberta (4514 Macleod Trail SW; and 1108 4th Street SW).

Should additional retailers or distributors of this product be identified, Health Canada will take appropriate action and inform Canadians.

Background:

Hydro Lean contains ingredients that can cause serious health problems. Ephedrine and caffeine, when combined, may cause serious and possibly fatal adverse effects. Ephedrine taken in combination with caffeine can cause symptoms ranging from dizziness, tremors, headaches and irregularities in heart rate to seizures, psychosis, heart attacks and stroke. Canadians suffering from heart conditions, high blood pressure and diabetes are among those particularly at risk.

Health Canada has communicated previously on Hydro-Lean, in 2006 and 2010.

How to report side effects to health products to Health Canada:

• Call toll-free at 1-866-234-2345
• Visit MedEffect Canada's web page on Adverse Reaction Reporting for information on how to report online, by mail or by fax.

SOURCE Health Canada