A dietary supplement sold through Amazon is being pulled from the market due to the alarming discovery of undisclosed and potentially dangerous drug ingredients. The manufacturer, MXBBB, has issued a voluntary recall of a specific lot of its Umary Acid Hyaluronic supplements after tests by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revealed contamination with two unlisted over-the-counter drugs: diclofenac and omeprazole.
The recall involves one lot of the hyaluronic acid supplements, packaged as 30 caplets containing 850 mg each. These supplements were marketed not only on Amazon but also on other online platforms like solovital.com and in retail stores. However, they are no longer available on Amazon following the FDA’s findings.
The FDA had already flagged Umary products earlier this year, issuing three separate warnings to consumers. The agency cautioned against purchasing any products from the brand, citing concerns about hidden drug ingredients that could pose significant health risks. These latest test results have underscored the FDA’s warnings, prompting immediate action from the manufacturer.
The Hidden Risks
The FDA’s analysis detected diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), and omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), in the supplements neither of which were listed on the product label.
Diclofenac is commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation, but it carries serious risks, particularly for cardiovascular health. Its use can increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes, especially with prolonged use or in individuals with preexisting conditions. It may also cause severe gastrointestinal complications, such as stomach bleeding or ulcers, which could be life-threatening.
Omeprazole, on the other hand, is a widely used medication for managing acid reflux. While generally safe when used under medical supervision, it can interact adversely with other medications. The FDA warned that this ingredient might mask symptoms of serious stomach conditions, such as ulcers or even stomach cancer, potentially delaying crucial diagnoses and treatment.
Hyaluronic acid supplements are often marketed for their potential benefits, including alleviating arthritis pain, hydrating the skin, and supporting eye, lung, and bladder health. Naturally occurring in foods like garlic, sweet potatoes, and spinach, hyaluronic acid has gained popularity as a dietary supplement for those seeking enhanced wellness.
However, the contamination of these supplements with hidden drugs undermines their safety and poses significant health risks to unsuspecting consumers. Such undisclosed ingredients can cause adverse reactions, especially in individuals taking other medications or managing chronic conditions.
What You Should Do
If you’ve purchased Umary Acid Hyaluronic supplements, the FDA urges you to stop using them immediately. Consumers should also consult their healthcare provider if they’ve experienced any unusual symptoms or health concerns after taking the product. For those looking to dispose of the recalled supplements, follow local guidelines for disposing of medications.
This recall serves as a stark reminder to approach dietary supplements with caution. Always check for FDA advisories and purchase from reputable brands that adhere to stringent manufacturing and labeling standards. Hidden ingredients can turn seemingly harmless supplements into potential health hazards, underscoring the importance of transparency and regulatory oversight in the wellness industry.
