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Supplements containing DMAA no longer legal

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Robert Hicks
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently announced products containing Dimethylamylamine are illegal because there is no guarantee the product is safe or effective.

Dimethylamylamine, also known as DMAA or geranium oil, is commonly used in products promising weight loss, performance enhancement and muscle building, such as OxyELITE Pro and Jack3d.

These kinds of supplements are often unregulated, meaning the dosage of an ingredient, like DMAA, may not be consistent from batch to batch.

According to the FDA website, DMAA narrows blood vessels and arteries, which can elevate blood pressure, and may lead to cardiovascular problems such as shortness of breath, arrhythmias, tightening in the chest, and heart attack, as well as seizures and other neurological and psychological conditions.

The FDA has received 86 reports of adverse events involving products containing DMAA. These events include psychiatric disorders, heart problems, nervous system disorders and death.

"Although supplements and herbals are unnecessary to enhance physical performance or achieve weight loss, individuals wishing to use them must look for seals from third party or independent verification programs, which certify the quality of the product and if there are any contaminants," said Tech. Sgt. Michelle Clinton-Hahn, 36th Medical Operations Squadron Health and Wellness Center NCO in charge.

Clinton-Hahn added that the United States Pharmacopeia and Consumer Lab are both examples of third party or independent verification programs. Consumers must remember even though a "seal" is on the product, it does not guarantee the product is effective for the advertised purpose.

"We will not 'bless' (a product), but we do provide information and will help explain it to the member so they can determine on their own if they wish to take it or not," Clinton-Hahn said.

If you are taking a supplement or herbal and want to know more information, like safety issues, adverse reactions, drug and diet interactions, and its effectiveness, the HAWC is able to help. Provide the full name of the product to a HAWC employee and they will be able to look up the relevant information.

More information about supplements and herbals can be found from Human Performance Resource Center at http://hprc-online.org/dietary-supplements, or by calling the HAWC at 366-3199.