Newsweek – Georgia-based supplement company GURU INC. voluntarily recalled a batch of Infla-650 herbal supplements on July 16 after they were found to contain acetaminophen, diclofenac and phenylbutazone, which were not listed on packaging.
The product is marketed as an herbal dietary supplement for pain relief and reducing inflammation.
“Use of the product poses a serious threat to consumers,” the FDA said in a statement.
The “hidden drugs” were first identified by the FDA on June 20 following routine tests.
Supplement company GURU INC. has voluntarily recalled a batch of Infla-650 herbal supplements after they were found to contain ingredients that were not listed on packaging …
“The most serious and life-threatening injury associated with phenylbutazone treatment is bone marrow toxicity, which occurs when the body does not produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and/or platelets,” according to the FDA.
“Patients with anemia, low white or red blood cell count, or decreased blood platelets may be at a greater risk of death or serious injury” …
Risk Statement:
Use of the product poses a serious threat to consumers because it may result in unintentional acetaminophen overdose, especially if it is used in combination with other acetaminophen-containing products.
Acetaminophen overdose can cause liver damage (hepatoxicity), ranging in severity from abnormalities in liver function to acute liver failure, and even death.
People who experience unintentional acetaminophen overdose may not seek prompt medical attention because the symptoms of liver damage can take several days to emerge, even in severe cases. Acetaminophen may also cause serious skin reactions. Symptoms may include skin reddening, rash, and blisters.
Diclofenac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (commonly referred to as NSAIDs). NSAIDs may cause increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and stroke, as well as serious gastrointestinal damage, including bleeding, ulceration, and fatal perforation of the stomach and intestines.
This hidden drug ingredient may also interact with other medications and significantly increase the risk of adverse events, particularly when consumers use multiple NSAID-containing products
Phenylbutazone is a NSAID that was discontinued for human use in the United States due to the risk of serious and life-threatening injuries.
The most serious and life-threatening injury associated with phenylbutazone treatment is bone marrow toxicity, which occurs when the body does not produce enough red blood cells, white blood cells, and/or platelets. Certain types of bone marrow toxicity are reversible; however, in rare circumstances it can lead to death.
Patients with anemia, low white or red blood cell count, or decreased blood platelets may be at a greater risk of death or serious injury.
