FDA warns vs. unregistered diet orange juice with amphetamine, sibutramine

Health authorities over the weekend warned the public against an unregistered orange juice that contains amphetamine and sibutramine, ingredients that could potentially pose a threat to health.

The Food and Drug Administration said "Leisure Burn Body Fat Orange Juice" is manufactured by America Huarui Sheng Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

In Advisory 2014-064, FDA head Kenneth Hartigan-Go said FDA agents observed the product being sold in Tuguegarao City in Cagayan.

Hartigan-Go said the product was found to have amphetamine, which he described as a dangerous drug that violates the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Also, he said the product has sibutramine, which may have "unnecessary cardiovascular risks to patients."

The FDA told distributors, retailers, hospitals, pharmacies and clinics to discontinue further distribution, sale and use of the product.

Also, it said its officers have orders to confiscate the products in the markets. The FDA also sought help from local government units to make sure the products are not sold.  — Joel Locsin /LBG, GMA News