1. What is Ephedra?

2. Is Ephedra actually a documented risk or threat to my health?

3. Are there safer alternatives to Ephedra?

4. What type of symptoms should I watch out for with the use of Ephedra?

5. Do Ephedra users have a right to compensation for health problems caused by Ephedra?

6. I have been taking Ephedra for some time now. What should I do?

7. What products contain Ephedra?

What is Ephedra?

Ephedra is commonly found in dietary supplement weight-loss products. Ephedrine-containing products have been promoted for enhancement of athletic performance and sometimes for bodybuilding regimens. Ephedrine is also sold illegally as "herbal ecstasy" to promote an euphoric state and to cause heightening of awareness and sexual sensations.

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Is Ephedra actually a documented risk or threat to my health?

Yes. Ephedra is a potential hazard to your health. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration in cooperation with the Department of Health and Human Services announced (December 2003) their intention to publish a final rule stating that “dietary supplements containing ephedrine alkaloids present an unreasonable risk of illness or injury”. The announcement comes less than a year after health officials called for more research into the dangers of Ephedra in the wake of the death of Baltimore Orioles pitcher Steve Bechler.

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Are there safer alternatives to Ephedra?

For weight loss, most physicians recommend a comprehensive approach including a healthy diet and good nutrition, regular physical activity, and behavioral change, with an emphasis on long-term weight management, rather than short-term extreme weight reduction.

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What type of symptoms should I watch out for with the use of Ephedra?

Side effects of Ephedra include:

• Nervousness

• Dizziness

• Tremor

• Elevated blood pressure

• Accelerated heart rate (tachycardia)

• Headache

• Gastrointestinal distress

• Chest pain

• Myocardial infarction

• Hepatitis

• Stroke

• Seizures

• Psychosis

• Death

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Do Ephedra users have a right to compensation for health problems caused by Ephedra?

If you or a loved one has suffered physical damage or personal injury due to the use of Ephedra, you may be entitled to a large compensatory award. You should contact an experienced Ephedra attorney to evaluate your rights. You should see an attorney as soon as possible. Your legal rights may be lost if you miss the filing date provided by your state's statute of limitations.

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I have been taking Ephedra for some time now. What should I do?

As with any dangerous drug, if you feel you have suffered a personal injury or are experiencing any of the above symptoms due to taking Ephedra, you should first contact your physician for an evaluation. Then, immediately contact an experienced attorney to learn your rights.

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What products contain Ephedra?

Many over-the-counter and prescription drugs contain Ephedra. It is best to check the label to determine if your product contains Ephedra. Below is a sample of drugs containing Ephedra:

• Metabolife

• Ripped Fuel

• Diet Fuel

• GH Fuel

• MetaboLift

• ThermiCare

• ETA Stack

• Ultimate Orange

• Xenadrine RFA

• ThermoPlex

• MetaCuts

• Chinese Ma Huang

• Lipokinetix

• Clenbutrx

• BetaLean HP

• Diurlean

• Diet Pap

• Dyma-Burn Xtreme

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