FDA Talk Papers are prepared by the Press Office to guide FDA personnel in responding with consistency and accuracy to questions from the public on subjects of current interest. Talk Papers are subject to change as more information becomes available.
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| November 21, 2000 | |
| Consumer Inquiries: 888-INFO-FDA |
The Food and Drug Administration is again warning consumers of products marketed as dietary supplements that contain tiratricol, also known as triiodothyroacetic acid or TRIAC, a potent thyroid hormone that may cause serious health consequences including heart attacks and strokes. Despite four recalls over the past seven months, various products that contain tiratricol may still have reached consumers. FDA urges all consumers to stop using such products immediately.
On November 11, 1999, FDA warned the public against consuming Triax Metabolic Accelerator, a dietary supplement for weight loss by Syntrax Innovations, Inc., Cape Giradeau, Mo. Since this action, several other firms have recalled similar products containing tiratricol. Distribution of these products has been primarily through retail sales to health food stores, fitness centers, and gymnasiums. There have been four additional such recalls:
On September 12, 2000, ATF Fitness Products Inc., Oakmont, Pa. recalled a similar product called "Sci-Fi-Tri-Cuts Dietary Supplement Capsules." Although the product contains 1000 mcg (1mg) of tiratricol, the labeling does not include indications for use and does not make any claims kind. The product was sold to 135 accounts, most of which were gyms and health food stores.
FDA urges all individuals who may have purchased these products, or any product containing tiratricol, to stop using them immediately and, in addition, to consult their health care professional if they are experiencing any adverse effects, which may include insomnia, nervousness, sweating, and diarrhea.
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