Beware Dangerous Dietary Supplement!

Many folks assume that so-called “natural” dietary supplements are a great way to bolster their health or treat an annoying problem without a pricey prescription drug. It is imperative to be informed about any supplement before taking it, however.
The FDA’s oversight of dietary supplements is limited, but when the agency finds a problem with such a product, consumers should pay attention. Back in June, FDA announced that Reumofan Plus, marketed as a dietary supplement for arthritis and pain relief, actually might contain three heavy-duty prescription medications. Based on chemical analysis, these could include:
• diclofenac (Cataflam, Voltaren) This is a NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug) in the same class as naproxen and ibuprofen.
• dexamethasone (Decadron) This is a corticosteroid in the same category as prednisone or cortisone.
• methocarbamol (Robaxin) This is a muscle relaxant with sedative properties.
Here is a link to the FDA’s warning and recall of Reumofan Plus. It describes the potentially serious side effects that these medications may cause. The agency has received reports of deaths and serious adverse reactions associated with this product.
The FDA cautions that NSAIDs like diclofenac may increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes as well as causing stomach bleeding or ulceration. This caution applies to prescription diclofenac and also most other NSAIDs, including over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen.
To learn more about the side effects of corticosteroids like prednisone, check out this link. Whether you are exposed to NSAIDS, corticosteroids or muscle relaxants like methocarbamol in a dietary supplement or in a prescription pill, the side effects can be equally devastating.