A study published on April 7, 2015, reported that among 21 weight loss, sports and cognitive enhancement supplements labeled as containing the plant extract Acacia rigidula, more than half were found to contain a synthetic, amphetamine-like compound called beta- methylphenylethylamine (BMPEA).

Animal studies suggest BMPEA could raise blood pressure and have effects similar to other amphetamine-like substances, although its safety in humans has not been studied. It was first reported by the FDA in 2013 to be present in supplements for weight loss, energy and mood. The current study suggests it remains on the market and is likely to be found in Acacia rigidula products.

The researchers tested supplements which were available for purchase online between January and April 2014 and were labeled as containing Acacia rigidula (several listed "beta- methylphenylethylamine" on the label as an alkaloid of the extract). Eleven of the 21 supplements - many from the same manufacturer- were found to contain doses of BMPEA ranging between 3 and 94 mg per maximum recommended daily dosage.

Supplements found to contain BMPEA include weight loss supplements Aro Black Series Burn (Vitacost), Lipodrene Hardcore, (Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals) and nine others, as well as two sports supplements, including Jet Fuel Superburn (GAT).

For the complete list of products see the Reviews of Weight Loss Supplements and Muscle Enhancers.

Some of the same products sold by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals which were found to contain BMPEA have been seized from the company in the past, after they were found to contain the illegal ingredient DMAA. DMAA, and an analogue, DMBA, have also been disguised on supplement labels in the past as botanical extracts.

To see the study, use the link below.