Are ephedra products safe for consumers to use?
Heller: No. Their small effect on weight loss isn’t worth the risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke or even dying. Taking ephedra is probably 100 times more likely to lead to a bad reaction than all other herbal supplements combined. Blumenthal: They are relatively safe when they are properly labeled and used for appropriate purposes. People have to heed warnings and follow the directions on the label. Q: Should ephedra products be removed from the market? Heller: They should be removed from the market because they are unsafe even when used according to directions. The government should not wait for any more deaths before it takes action. Blumenthal: No, I don’t believe the products should be banned. The products should be made with appropriate quality control, properly labeled and used for appropriate purposes. Consumers and health care professionals should be educated on the potential risks and benefits. Q: Should makers of dietary supplements, like drug makers, have to prove th
