FDA warns of steroids in vitamin B supplement

FDA this week advised consumers not to buy or use the vitamin B dietary supplement Healthy Life Chemistry By Purity First B-50 after laboratory analysis found the supplement contains two potentially harmful anabolic steroids.

A preliminary FDA laboratory analysis found the product contains methasterone, a controlled substance, and dimethazine. Neither ingredient is listed on the label and should not be included in a supplement.

“Products marketed as a vitamin but which contain undisclosed steroids pose a real danger to consumers and are illegal,” said Howard Sklamberg, director of the Office of Compliance in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “The FDA is committed to ensuring that products marketed as vitamins and dietary supplements do not pose harm to consumers.”

Thus far, FDA has received reports of 29 adverse incidents associated with the use of Healthy Life Chemistry By Purity First B-50, including fatigue, muscle cramping, and myalgia, as well as abnormal laboratory findings for liver and thyroid function, and cholesterol levels.

Some women using this product have reported unusual hair growth and missed menstruation. Men have reported impotence and flow testosterone. 

FDA asks healthcare professionals and consumers to report any adverse reactions to its MedWatch program.