Roadtown, Tortola - Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services Ms. Gracia Wheatley alerts the public about a product recall notification for several dietary supplements, which has been received by the Ministry of Health and Social Development.

The recalled products are Hydroxycut Regular Rapid Release Caplets, Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Rapid Release Caplets, Hydroxycut Hardcore Liquid Caplets, Hydroxycut Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Caffeine-Free Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Hardcore Drink Packets (Ignition Stix), Hydroxycut Max Drink Packets, Hydroxycut Liquid Shots, Hydroxycut Hardcore RTDs (Ready to Drink), Hydroxycut Max Aqua Shed, Hydroxycut 24, Hydroxycut Carb Control, and Hydroxycut Natural.

“These products pose risk of liver injury,” notes the Territory’s Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services. “The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received 23 reports of serious health problems ranging from jaundice and elevated liver enzymes – an indicator of potential liver injury – to liver damage requiring liver transplant,” she adds.

Ms. Wheatley confirms that at least one fatality was linked to the recalled products. “One death due to liver failure has been reported to the FDA. Other reported health problems include seizures, cardiovascular disorders, and rhabdomyolysis, which is a type of muscle damage that can lead to other serious health problems such as kidney failure,” she says.

The Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services advises persons who experience one or more of the mentioned symptoms, possibly linked with the use of one of the recalled products, to consult their physician. Ms. Wheatley also made a request for the affected products to be removed from the shelves of pharmacies, drug stores, and supermarkets in the Virgin Islands (UK).

Consumers have been told to discontinue use of the recalled dietary supplements to avoid any undue health risks. The public may also contact the Chief of Drugs and Pharmaceutical Services at 494-3701, extension 2236, for further information.

The Ministry of Health and Social Development aspires to provide leadership that promotes health, social well-being, and a safe environment as positive resources for living and sustainable development of the Virgin Islands (UK).