WASHINGTON--The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a consumer warning against Triax Metabolic Accelerator. FDA warned consumers not to take it, since it contains a potent thyroid hormone that is potentially dangerous and possibly lethal. Triax is marketed by Cape Girardeau, Mo.-based Syntrax Innovations Inc.

According to an FDA statement, "The FDA has determined.that this product is not a dietary supplement but an unapproved drug containing a potent thyroid hormone, which may cause serious health consequences including heart attacks and stroke." Taking Triax could result in an overdose--up to ten times the safe amount--of the hormone, said one FDA medical officer.

Individuals who sought medical attention after using the product were considered in the report that led to the warning. The FDA statement also referred to them. "These individuals had sought medical attention because of symptoms such as severe diarrhea, lethargy or profound weight loss."

FDA urged all individuals who were using Triax, or any other product containing the active ingredient, triiodothyroacetic acid or tiratricol (TRIAC), to stop immediately and consult a health care professional. In response to the warning, Triax's distributor asserted that the product is indeed safe. It has threatened to sue the FDA. At press time, no other comment has been made.