Promatrix brand DHEA 25
Three unauthorized health products that may pose serious risks to the health of Canadians were seized by Health Canada. The products, “Sport X Ephedrine”, “DHEA 25” and “Promatrix DHEA 25” were being sold by S&H Health Foods, 2150 Burnhamthorpe Rd. W., Mississauga.
DHEA is a controlled drug that can cause higher than normal levels of female and male hormones in the body and could increase the risk of prostate, breast, ovarian, and other hormone-sensitive cancers. Potential side effects include serious cardiovascular disease, and changes in fertility and sperm production. DHEA should be avoided by individuals with a history of abnormal heart rhythms, blood clotting disorders, liver disease and those who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Use of products containing ephedrine is not recommended in people with heart problems, hypertension, thyroid disease, diabetes, enlarged prostate, anxiety and restlessness, glaucoma (serious eye disorder) and pheochromocytoma (serious gland disorder) because ephedra/ephedrine aggravates these conditions. Consumers should use ephedra/ephedrine products only for the approved indication of nasal decongestion, and should not exceed the maximum allowable dosage described in the ephedra and ephedrine/pseudoephedrine labelling standards, unless this has been recommended by — and they are under the surveillance of — a health care practitioner. These products should also be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.