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INDUSTRY EMPHASIZES: 'MEDICAL EXPERTS VIEW EPHEDRA AS SAFE AND BENEFICIAL FOR WEIGHT LOSS'

WASHINGTON (February 03, 2003) -In response to a study released by the Annals of Internal Medicine, Wes Siegner, general counsel of the Ephedra Education Council, today issued the following statement:

"Leading experts in weight loss view ephedra as one of the few safe and beneficial options for Americans who need to lose weight but cannot do so by exercise and diet alone. Last week, more than twenty board-certified physicians sent letters to HHS supporting the safety and dramatic health benefits of ephedra products. The safety and benefits of these products are supported by more than 55 clinical studies conducted by respected researchers worldwide. In contrast, the authors of this study, three of whom serve as paid experts in cases against ephedra manufacturers, base their conclusions on a review of adverse event reports (AERs).

"FDA and scientific experts have stated that AERs cannot be used to determine the safety of ephedra. Therefore, this report, which is not a clinical study, is not useful for assessing the safety of ephedra.

"Like other commonly marketed products, such as aspirin and peanuts, ephedra dietary supplement products should not be used by some people. Ephedra is safe when used correctly. The industry has voluntarily established through state laws standards for labels that specify serving limits and comprehensive warnings that direct certain consumers to consult with health professionals before taking ephedra.

"Obesity is a national epidemic, and millions of Americans can enjoy significant health benefits with weight loss. Ephedra dietary supplements are an important option for Americans seeking an herbal alternative to diet and exercise alone."

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The Ephedra Education Council (EEC) is supported primarily by members of the Ephedra Committee of the American Herbal Products Association, a recognized leader in promoting the safe and responsible marketing of dietary supplements. The Council provides factual information to the media and public about dietary supplements containing Ephedra. For more information, logon to www.EphedraFacts.com.

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