On December 19, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to buy or use weight loss supplement Dr. Ming's Chinese Capsule because it was found to contain sibutramine and phenolphthalein.

Sibutramine, the active ingredient in the obesity drug Meridia, was removed from the U.S. market in October 2010 because it can substantially increase blood pressure and pulse rate in some individuals, and may present a significant risk for patients with a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke. This drug may also interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking.

Phenolphthalein, once an ingredient in some over-the-counter laxative products, was reclassified by the FDA in 1999 as "not generally recognized as safe and effective."

Dr. Ming's Chinese Capsule is promoted for weight loss and is sold in some retail stores and on various websites, including www.slimbeautyusa.com.

(See ConsumerLab.com's Review of Weight Loss Supplements for tests of related products.)

Consumers who have purchased this supplement should discontinue use immediately and contact their healthcare provider if they have experienced any adverse side effects. Consumers and healthcare providers are also encouraged to report any adverse reactions to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting Program.

See Related Warnings:

FDA Warns Consumers Of Weight Loss Supplement Containing Undeclared Drug

Weight Loss Supplement Recalled Due To Undeclared Drug

FDA Seizes Weight Loss Supplements Containing Undeclared Drug

Rx Drugs Found in Weight Loss and Enhancement Supplements

Recall of "Slimming" Supplements Spiked with Drug

To read the FDA's warning, use the link below.