News

April 2015

Amphetamine-Like Chemical Identified in Sports and Weight Loss Dietary Supplements

A chemical similar to amphetamine called beta-methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA), has been identified in common sports and weight loss dietary supplements that contain Acacia rigidula. BMPEA is currently classified as a banned substance by the World Anti-Doping Agency.

Researchers tested 21 supplements containing the ingredient Acacia rigidula. Eleven of the products contained BMPEA. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported similar findings in 2012, but consumer warnings have not yet been issued about these products. To report an adverse event or side effect related to Acacia rigidula products, or any natural medicine, submit a report on our Natural MedWatch.

References

  1. Cohen PA1, Bloszies C, Yee C, et al. An amphetamine isomer whose efficacy and safety in humans has never been studied, β-methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA), is found in multiple dietary supplements. Drug Test Anal. 2015 Apr 7.

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