The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a recommendation for all consumers to stop using Fruta Planta immediately as a result of multiple reports that users of the supplement have experienced serious side effects and that at least one person has died.
Fruta Planta is a pill that is advertised as a Chinese weight loss supplement. A dietary supplement is a product that is consumed to add to the nutrition provided by food, such as additional vitamins or minerals. Weight loss supplements are often advertised to contain unique ingredients or formulas that help increase weight loss.
Sellers of Fruta Planta claim it can reduce hunger and help dieters avoid food cravings. They also claim it is 100 percent natural and made from all-natural fruit plants. The active ingredients are listed as lemon, bitter melon, papaya, benefit fruit (mangosteen), and spirulina maxima.
In addition to these ingredients, the FDA laboratory determined that Fruta Planta also contains a controlled substance called sibutramine. Sibutramine was withdrawn from the market in October 2010 after it was declared to be a health risk. Sibutramine can substantially increase blood pressure and pulse rate in some people. Patients who have a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, heart arrhythmias, or stroke are at higher risk. In addition, sibutramine in Fruta Planta may cause life-threatening interactions with other medications.
To prevent possible health risks to consumers, the FDA recommends that Fruta Planta should not be used as a dietary supplement. It also recommends that anyone who has a supply of Fruta Planta should throw it away. Anyone who has experienced side effects or other health concerns in connection with taking Fruta Planta is asked to report the experience by submitting an online report to the FDA.
Fruta Planta has been available online from a variety of websites including FrutaPlanta.com, which claims to offer “the original” or “authentic formula” of Fruta Planta. The FDA has not distinguished between sellers or formulas and has not approved any formula of the Fruta Planta dietary supplement.
To lose weight safely and to maintain a healthy weight, medical professionals recommend making lifestyle changes that you can live with for the rest of your life. A basic plan for weight loss should include exercise and eating a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low fat dairy products, and lean meats.
Sources:
FDA Consumer Drug Information
Fruta Planta: FDA Public Notification
FrutaPlanta.com
National Institutes of Health: Weight-control Information Network