Mixed
Weight-loss and bodybuilding supplements, particularly those containing ephedra, DMAA, or adulterated with unlisted drugs (e.g., anabolic steroids, fluoxetine), carry a significant risk of severe adverse events including liver failure, cardiovascular collapse, and death.
Avoid weight-loss supplements containing ephedra, DMAA, or unlisted ingredients. Bodybuilding supplements are frequently adulterated with steroids or other drugs. If you experience liver symptoms (jaundice, fatigue) or cardiovascular issues (palpitations, chest pain) after taking these, stop immediately and seek medical help. The risk of severe injury or death is real.
A recent review estimated that the proportion of drug-induced liver injuries due to dietary supplements is currently about 20%. Furthermore, bodybuilding and weight-loss supplements account for almost half of these injuries... OxyELITE Pro... 36 cases of acute hepatitis... 3 received liver transplants, and 1 died... DMAA... three cases of cardiac arrest occurred during physical exercise... two of the events eventually led to the deaths of US soldiers... bodybuilding supplements are quite often adulterated with anabolic steroids... Side effects of these drugs, such as panic attacks, psychotic episodes, and increases in blood pressure and heart rate
Why this rating
The paper cites specific outbreaks, FDA investigations, case series with mortality, and confirmed adulteration, providing high-confidence evidence of harm.
Source
Adverse Effects of Nutraceuticals and Dietary Supplements
Martin J. J. Ronis et al. · The Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology · 2017
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