March 2003

In January 1993, and again in October 2000, the Athletic Association sent all our member schools information about the adverse effects on athletes using ephedrine. Ephedrine is the active ingredient in nutritional supplements containing ephedra, which is called Ma Huang in its herbal state. Now, ten years later, we are again asking for your help in cautioning your students and coaches about the use of products containing ephedra-products.

The United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued the following statement on Friday, February 28, 2003, "We want to caution all Americans - particularly athletes and those who engage in strenuous activities - about using dietary supplements containing ephedra. There continue to be serious questions about the risks surrounding this particular dietary supplement." According to HHS, studies indicate that ephedra is associated with higher risks of mild to moderate side effects such as irregular heart beat, tremors, insomnia, psychiatric problems and gastrointestinal problems than other supplements.

The Food and Drug Administration states it is particularly concerned about the risks of using products containing ephedra during heavy workouts, in a diet program, or by people under the age of 18.

The Annuals of Internal Medicine reported in their February 2003 issue that although ephedra-products make up less than on percent of all dietary supplement sales, they account for 64% of all adverse reactions associated with supplement use. The journal, Neurology, concluded that the rate of bleeding strokes among ephedra users was statistically significantly higher than among nonusers. Many other reputable sources also caution against the use of products containing ephedra.

EPHEDRA-PRODUCTS FACT SHEET

What are ephedra-products?

Any products containing ephedra, ephedrine or Ma Huang.

What are ephedra-products used for?

Ephedra-products are primarily used as stimulants and to aid in weight loss.

What are the dangers of taking ephedra-products?

• Nausea and vomiting

• Rapid and irregular heart beat

• Insomnia and restlessness

• Tremors

• Brain hemorrhaging and stroke

• Heart attack

United States Department of Health & Human Services statement, Friday, February 28, 2003:  "We want to caution all Americans - particularly athletes and those who engage in strenuous activities - about using dietary supplements containing ephedra. There continue to be serious questions about the risks surrounding this particular dietary supplement."

United States Food and Drug Administration statement, Friday, February 28, 2003:   "We are particularly concerned about the risks of using products containing ephedra during heavy workouts, with caffeine and other stimulants, in a diet program that stresses the cardiovascular system, or by people under the age of 18. We are also concerned about the potential stresses to the body of long-term use of ephedra."

The Annuals of Internal Medicine reported in their February 2003 issue that, "Although ephedra-products make up less than on percent of all dietary supplement sales, they account for 64% of all adverse reactions associated with supplement use."

The journal, Neurology, concluded that, "The rate of hemorrhagic (bleeding) strokes among ephedra users was statistically significantly higher than among nonusers, for people who take more than 32 milligrams a day."

(Information taken from FDA NEWS, February 28, 2003 <www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2003/NEW00875.html)