Xenadrine is an over-the-counter weight-loss supplement that claims to boost metabolism and help burn fat. According to Xenadrine-efx-rfa.com facts, the original formula, FRA-1, contained ephedrine in the form of ma huang; specifically, the ingredients include 85 mg ma huang or 20 mg ephedrine, and 335 mg guarana extract, that is, 200 mg caffeine among other ingredients. The inclusion of ephedrine resulted in it being banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2004 because ephedrine was associated with cardiac arrest and death in several court cases. Current formulations of Xenadrine are sold as ephedra-free and do not contain the controversial substance.
Myocardial Infarction and Tachycardia Risk
Lethal cardiovascular effects are associated with this product that include heart attack and death as documented by the FDA, irregular and rapid heartbeat, and hypertension or high blood pressure. Those with a medical history of heart disease definitely should not take this product.
Stroke and Neuropathy Risk
Ephedrine is a central nervous system stimulant, thus nervous system effects beyond headache reports are expected. This substance is associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents, that is, stroke, and seizures. Forms of neuropathy, that is, nerve cell damage as well as muscle damage or myopathy, also have been reported. This product is associated with dizziness and memory loss.
Restlessness and Insomnia
Other side effects have been associated with taking this product that include tremors with restlessness, and sleeping problems, no doubt, related to the side effect of feeling restless. Individuals taking this stimulant also will likely experience extreme tiredness or fatigue. Such side effects likely are related to the ingredient of caffeine in this product.
Precautions
Xenadrine should not be taken by people under 18 years of age, and it should not be taken for an extended period of time. While the current formulas do not contain ephedrine, Xenadrine's individual safety depends on each person's sensitivity to certain ingredients in the product. For example, the high intake of caffeine daily could lead to serious side effects in those sensitive to caffeine. Consequently, other caffeine substances such as coffee or tea, should be restricted to avoid potential risk of symptoms from excessive caffeine. A physician should be consulted if this supplement is under consideration for use.
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