Public Policy Center

The History Of FDA's Opposition To Ephedra

The following are the main elements of the FDA's proposed rule:

1. Product potency would be limited to less than 8 mg of ephedrine alkaloids per serving, and daily intake would be limited to less than 24 mg.

2. The product label would be required to include the statement "Do not use this product for more than 7 days."

3. The combination of ma huang with other stimulants, including caffeine, would be prohibited.

4. Labeling claims such as weight loss and bodybuilding that encourage long-term use would be prohibited.

5. For products with claims for short-term effects such as increased energy, the product label must include the warning: "Taking more than the recommended serving may result in heart attack, stroke, seizure or death."