Consumer Reports Highlights Risky Pills: Supplements to Avoid

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The January issue of Consumer Reports takes a look at dangerous supplements, noting that some dietary supplements present health risks and some have even been found to be spiked with prescription drugs.

In 2007, Consumer Reports claims the FDA issued more than nine "safety alerts" warning consumers to stop using 13 brands marketed as supplements because testing found that these supplements contained prescription medications. Supplements are taken for a variety of reasons, such as weight loss, arthritis, depression, anxiety, stress, and asthma. Consumer Reports believes people tend to turn to supplements because they want to avoid the risks and potential drug interactions of pharmaceutical drugs.

CR's full report, with a listing of 11 supplements containing hazardous ingredients, is available online at www.ConsumerReportsHealth.org. In the meantime, to be safe, it says consumers should learn more about the evidence behind the supplements they are taking or are considering taking. CR also recommends that consumers look for the USP Verified Dietary Supplement mark on products for assurance that the product they're purchasing has the declared ingredients.


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