Canada Reiterates Ephedra Warning
OTTAWAHealth Canada reminded the public in early June about the serious health risks of taking ephedra or ephedrine products for reasons other than nasal decongestion. Although Health Canada has monitored the removal of more than 250,000 products containing these ingredients since its January 2003 health advisory and recall of ephedra supplements, the agency has been following up on complaints that some products subject to recall continue to be to sold to Canadian consumers.
Health Canada reported some retail employees have been selling consumers legally available ephedra and ephedrine products (e.g., products intended for nasal decongestion) and advising consumers how to obtain the same effect as ephedra supplements. This activity is also illegal and places the health and potentially the lives of consumers in danger, Health Canada wrote in a press release.
Health Canada is currently considering other enforcement actions to address the illegal sale of ephedra and ephedrine products not intended for stuffed-up customers. Health Canada is asking that consumers report retail outlets that carry ephedra supplements or are involved in illegal activities relating to legal ephedrine products by calling the Health Products and Food Branch Inspectorate tollfree at (800) 267-9675.